Senator Bong Go revealed that he had discussed the current situation on the 2019 novel coronavirus outbreak with President Rodrigo Duterte.
The senator said that he had recommended imposing a temporary ban on all travellers from China and its Special Administrative Region.
RELATED STORY: PH confirms first 2019-nCoV death outside China
Go said that the recommendation came from the Department of Health and the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Infectious Diseases.
“Taking into consideration the concerns raised by key government officials and health experts, the President made an informed decision and has agreed to adopt this recommendation and implement it immediately as an additional precautionary measure to protect Filipinos and everyone in the Philippines,” Go said in a statement.
The senator, however, clarifies that the ban is not only for Chinese nationals but for everyone who will travel from China to the Philippines.
“I wish to emphasize that we are not singling out Chinese nationals. This order covers all travelers from China to the Philippines, regardless of nationality,” Go added.
READ ON: PH eyes two areas as quarantine site for OFWs from China
The President said that they empathize with China given what they are going through, but the ban is for the protection of Filipinos.
“The Philippine government is committed to help China and other affected countries address this worldwide health concern,” Go said.
“I am urging the public to be informed and listen to our officials and health experts. Do not panic. Magtulungan tayo. Unahin natin ang kapakanan, interes, at kalusugan ng bawat Pilipino,” the senator added.
