Samboan ports to stay closed until September 8

CEBU, Philippines — The southern town of Samboan in Cebu is stepping up its fight against the coronavirus by extending the travel restrictions on domestic passengers.

Mayor Emerito Calderon has issued another executive order extending the suspension of all passenger travels via any seaport within the town.

Executive Order No. 39 will be valid for another two weeks. It will take effect tomorrow, August 27, until September 9.

“The temporary suspension of passengers travel at all local seaports in the Municipality of Samboan to prevent possible local COVID-19 transmission shall be extended for a period of two weeks effective August 27. Depending on the risk assessment conducted such suspension may be extended as necessary,” the order read.

Samboan is one of the entry and exit points to the island of Negros.

But authorized persons outside residence (APOR) on official business are exempted from the travel ban.

“APORs on official business only with very important reasons as allowed by the mayor in writing upon request,” read the post of the town’s official Facebook page.

APOR must send a travel request to [email protected] or message fax to 032-4790080.

Other exceptions to the travel ban include immediate medical emergency; confirmed flight abroad as a final destination, and confirmed and official court hearings and meetings.

On the other hand, the movement of cargo, especially essential goods, will remain unhampered.

“No passenger traffic is allowed via Samboan seaports except those with essential goods/cargo business until September 9, 2020 unless extended,” the post further read. — KQD (FREEMAN)