The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Zambales—headed by DILG Zambales Provincial Director Armi V. Bactad, CESO V—in its effort of strengthening the capacity of the frontliners combating the COVID-19 virus, conducted today, April 28, 2021, the Reorientation of Local Epidemiology and Surveillance Units (LESUs) and Contact Tracers on Contact Tracing. The activity is in coordination with the Provincial Government of Zambales through the Provincial Health Office (PHO) and Provincial Department of Health Office (PDoHO).

The activity zeroed in on emphasizing the importance of filling up the Case Investigation Form (CIF) with accurate and complete information to ease up contact tracing activities. Topics on LGU Assessment Tools, latest COVID-19-related directives, Contact Tracing Updates and Client Investigation Forms, among others, were also discussed.

The members of the Provincial Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (PESU) and representatives from the Provincial Health Office (PHO) headed by Dr. Noel Bueno and Provincial Department of Health Office (PDoHO) headed by Dr. Jessie Fantone served as the resource speakers for the activity.

In her closing message, CTL Judith B. Romero acknowledged the recommendation for close coordination between the PHO and PDoHO to come up with a centralized database system that could greatly help in providing timely and accurate data for monitoring and updating of reports on the COVID-19 cases in the province - a strategic plan to further strengthen the coordination of all the stakeholders to ensure smooth flow of COVID-related information across all levels.

To heighten the capacity of our workforce in abating the covid-19 virus, strengthening the functionality and coordination among the LESUs is highly given priority along with adequately tracing the close contacts of the confirmed cases for proper isolation/quarantine in appropriate health facilities using the patient pathway for COVID-19 cases.

-LGOOs II Stephany A. Panaligan, Rose Ann Agostosa, Paulin Johanne Reyes and Aljon Bautista