EOC reminds public: Love is in the air, and also COVID

CEBU CITY, Philippines — The Cebu City Emergency Operations Center (EOC) reminds the public to stay at home during the Valentine’s Day or choose a safer way to celebrate the day.

Councilor Joel Garganera, EOC deputy chief implementor, said that while it might be tempting to go on dates outside the homes, the couples and families must remember that the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases were still rising.

“Love is in the air, and also COVID. So, if only we comply and follow the health protocols, the soonest we can hug our loved ones. We can really embrace them,” said Garganera.

Read: Where to go for a budget-friendly and safe Valentine’s Day #CDNDValentines2021

The EOC has noted that the increase in cases is still fast and the transmission is more prevalent at restaurants and karenderyas because this is where people become complacent during meal times.

Garganera appeals to the public, who will be celebrating Valentine’s Day, to avoid crowded places and comply with the minimum health protocols should they choose to go out.

Read: Karenderyas, workplaces are top sources of COVID-19 in Cebu City

Cebu City recorded 199 new cases of the COVID-19 on February 12, 2021, raising the active cases to 2,761. The cases have been average of 150 daily for the past three weeks.

Yet the recoveries are slowly rising as well with the city recording 108 recoveries on Friday.

The EOC said the city should expect a slow rise in recoveries, and they hope it would catch up with the active cases.

“As we celebrate this year’s unique hearts day, may we be reminded that there are more ways than one to celebrate while keeping others safe. Wear your mask, wash your hands, and be physically distant as a way of showing that we care for them,” said councilor.

/dbs