The Presidential Security Group (PSG) has implemented a “no touch policy” on President Rodrigo Duterte amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) scare, while the security measures on the President and the first family will be strictly executed.
“PSG will implement a no-touch policy between PRRD and the public. Personalities who are expected to get near PRRD during meetings and events will be thoroughly screened and tested for any illness or symptom related to COVID-19. These include PSG personnel, politicians, and other dignitaries,” PSG Commander Col. Jesus P Durante III said.
Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said the order is necessary to give added protection to the Chief Executive and his family.
“We have to be practical. I don’t know if you have seen the virus contaminates, and touch is the most – No. 1 – magnet of the virus being spread,” Panelo said.
Panelo added the President and other high officials will have a meeting on how to heighten public safety.
President Duterte earlier declared under Proclamation No. 922 the state of public health emergency nationwide which gives local government units the power to use their calamity funds.
The spokesperson said he trusts that Congress knows what to do with the requested supplemental budget of the Department of Health (DOH).
Meanwhile, the issue on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) was also discussed. Panelo said the funds from POGOs can be used to address the effects of COVID-19 since the President has not suspended it yet.
“As much as needed, I suppose, if they are just there. We can use it. Incidentally, I heard Cong. Salceda saying that it’s not even 17 billion, it’s 22 billion pesos. He has already decided eh, the President does not decide just like that, he’s a very cautious person,” Panelo said. – Report from Mela Lesmoras
