It is with a heavy heart that I share with you news of the passing of yet another City Government employee. He succumbed to the deadly COVID-19 today and he is the second employee to have expired due to the virus, in just under a week.
As of the present, a total of six (6) employees from the Land Tax Division have tested positive, with four (4) of them being asymptomatic.
I immediately conferred with our Vice Mayor El Cid M. Familiaran, City Administrator Em L. Ang, City Health Officer Dr. Ma. Carmela Gensoli, and other government officials to address this unfortunate turn of events.
Thus, upon the sound recommendation of these city officials, I have ordered the immediate and temporary closure of the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC) starting today until August 16, 2020, or for a minimum period of seven (7) days subject to further evaluation.
This action is primarily meant to allow our Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (DRRMO) personnel to effectively decontaminate or disinfect the building and its surroundings. However, in order not to hamper emergency and social welfare services of the City, I have ordered the City Health Office, DRRMO and the Department of Social Services and Development to continue operating outside of the BCGC in locations that will be advised later.
The general public may reach the City Mayor’s Office at the Bacolod City Public Plaza Office where it shall temporarily hold office, while the City Administrator’s Office shall be at the Tourism Satellite Office/Bayanihan Center along Rizal Street (near SM).
As the City is intensifying its efforts in this battle against COVID-19, we implore everyone to do their share by cooperating with our authorities and to follow the minimum health protocols set by the national and local governments. Our individual acts definitely count in this fight.
Lastly, please join me in praying for the eternal repose of all those who have died from this dreadful disease; for the full and swift recovery of those still under treatment; and for local transmissions to stop. Let us also pray for our City and for our neighboring towns and cities – that we may all be guided and protected by the Almighty.
Stay safe, my beloved Bacolodnons.
ATTY. EVELIO R. LEONARDIA
City Mayor