BONTOC, Mountain Province – Starting the day right, employees of the municipal government, personnel from the Bontoc Municipal Police Station (MPS), criminology interns of the Mountain Province State Polytechnic College (MPSPC), barangay officials and the community woke up as early as 6:30 in the morning today, October 4, 2023, and participated in a simultaneous clean-up drive in this capital in response to the increasing number of chikungunya, dengue and typhoid fever cases in the municipality.
This activity is part of the municipal government’s commitment and effort to maintain a healthy and safe environment, as well as to encourage and remind the public of the importance of sanitation.
It is to be noted that Bontoc Mayor Jerome “Chagsen” Tudlong, Jr., issued Memorandum Order No. 106-2023, directing the barangay officials to take the lead in informing and mobilizing their respective constituents to participate in the clean-up drive.
On the part of the municipal government, elected officials and employees including those employed under a contract of service and job-order status were directed to clean their respective offices and premises during the simultaneous clean-up drive.
Mayor Tudlong thanked everyone for their active participation in the clean-up drive adding that it is a manifestation of the government and the public commitment to the maintenance of a healthy and clean environment.
Aside from the dengue, chikungunya and typhoid fever cases, Municipal Health Officer Dr. Diga Kay Gomez reported cases of sore eyes in the locality.
Relative to this, Dr. Gomez advised individuals who are experiencing sore eyes to refrain from engaging in actions that involve extensive physical contact, such as handshakes. Instead, she suggested using a fist bump as a safer alternative when greeting others.
Additionally, for students, it is recommended that they wear pants temporarily as a precautionary measure. Further, the importance of regular hand washing and sanitizing was reiterated.
Relative to these health concerns, Mayor Tudlong advised the public to remain vigilant and prioritize one’s well-being.
“The battle against these health concerns is on-going. Therefore, let us make a conscious effort to protect ourselves every day. Your health and safety are paramount, and we urge you to adhere to these guidelines to help prevent the spread of these illnesses, the mayor elaborated. By Alpine L. Killa- Malwagay & Nicole Shane Fidchao
