Some of those caught in Cagayan de Oro City for violating a city ordinance for going out in public not wearing face masks, face shields and not observing social distancing. October 5, Monday, marked the first day the city implemented the ordinance. (Photo from Cagayan de Oro City Facebook Page)
Cagayan de Oro City confirmed 38 new confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) cases as the city starts the first day implementation of arresting those who do not wear face masks and face shields in public.
The city’s health department confirmed 38 new Covid-19 cases over the weekend, one involving a locally stranded individual (LSI) and 37 local transmission cases bringing the city’s total case load to 890.
Acting City Health Officer Dr. Lorraine Nery said of the 37 new local cases, 19 are close contacts of previously confirmed cases.
The city has 301 active cases.
Meanwhile, the city started implementing a city ordinance penalizing anyone caught in public places not wearing a face mask and face shield and not observing social distancing. Among those caught are ordinary pedestrians, public market workers and truck drivers.
Under Ordinance Ordinance No. 13946-2020 anyone caught in public not wearing a face mask and not socially distancing will be fined P2,000. If the person caught has no money to pay for the fine, he/she will be required to render community service. Eight hours of community service will be worth P500, or a total of 32 hours of community service will be worth the P2,000 fine.
If a person cannot pay or render community service, he/she will be charged in court. If the person is found guilty of violating the city ordinance, he will still be fined P2,000 or be jailed for not more than 15 days depending on the discretion of the court. Rommel F. Lopez