The Regional Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Disease (RIATF-EID XII) and RTF on Covid-19 hole of Region XII has finally downloaded the guidelines for the region-wide Point-to-Point Transport Scheme after it was unanimously approved by the Joint Body earlier.

DILG XII RD Josephine Cabrido-Leysa, CESO III explained that the scheme simply means travel ‘from Terminal of Origin to Terminal of Destination’ only, as established by the local government. “The main idea is to purposely prohibit PUV, PUB or PUJs to drop or pick-up passengers along its route. I think that this system can help in providing more convenient and smoother transportation to and from designated despite some Covid-19-related limitations and restrictions,” Dir. Leysa said.

She added that based on the guidelines, PUVs, PUBs or PUJs are not allowed to drop-off passengers at border points regardless of the level of Community Quarantine of the LGUs. Any action which is contrary to the said guideline will need the consent of the RIATF-EID XII or RTF against COVID-19 XII either through a Resolution or Referendum.

To deter unauthorized disembarkation, especially in isolated locations, the doors of public transport vehicles which cross the borders will be sealed with the standard logo prior its departure. Upon arrival at the destination, the seal can be removed to allow disembarkation of passengers. If the seals appear to have been tampered upon arrival, an inspection of both vehicle and passengers will be conducted by security borders personnel stationed at the terminal.

“This is one way of facilitating the work of our contact tracers in the region. This October, we have put these tracers at work and we all hope that it will make a difference for us, especially now that we have the P2P scheme to reinforce our tracking mechanism,” Director Leysa said.

She also added that the prescribed distancing remains in effect and has to be observed at all times. She encouraged passengers to stay within specially marked locations while queuing areas to maintain the minimum one-meter distance required.

“We appeal once again to our fellow residents in Region XII to support the moves of our LGUs for the P2P Scheme. Somehow, we can see some gains in our battle against Covid-19 and we are all hoping that additional measures to discourage unnecessary drop-off of commuters will work for our favor,” Dir. Leysa said