Businesses urged to comply with Project Balik Buhay guidelines

As companies are continuing to assess the operating status of their businesses as the COVID-19 crisis evolves and changes on a daily basis, the Project Balik Buhay (PBB) strongly pushes for strategic testing of employees and the compliance to the new health protocols before resumption of business operations within the tri-cities (Cebu, Mandaue, Lapu-Lapu).

Recently, Mayor Labella issued EO 075 institutionalizing PBB and orders for a strategic community testing in order to come up with a calibrated, specific, evidence-based, and data driven policies to combat the spread of COVID-19. However, long term success cannot be taken for granted. All sections of the society, including businesses and employers, must also play a role if Cebu were to stop the spread of the virus.

Companies that wishes to continue their businesses during the COVID-19 crisis must be able to take appropriate precautions to protect the health and safety of their workers that requires diligence in adhering to all relevant health and safety policies and procedures underlined in the project, as well as protocols issued by government agencies, in protecting individuals from the COVID-19 virus.

Thus, in order to provide a safe and healthy working environment, it is crucial to have the strategic testing of employees as Cebu prepares to open up its economy once again.

Regional Development Council-7 Chairman Kenneth Cobonpue during the launch of Project Balik Buhay also stated that establishments should be proud if they test all of their employees, as it can conclude that their workplace is COVID-19 free.

Accordingly, in ramping up business operations, the Project Balik Buhay recognizes the guidelines set by IATF.

With this, all identified companies under Phase 1, 2, and 3a will be required to do 100 percent rapid testing on all their employees, as a pre-requisite for the resumption of operations. All tests shall be shouldered by the private companies 100 percent.

For businesses who are interested to join kindly send us the following details: Complete Name, Company, and Mobile Number and send to 09151623422 and we will give you a slot to participate in the next PBB Orientation.

For more information on the Project Balik Buhay, one may call/text or 09655346501 (Jezreel) 09151623422 (Bien) or email at bien@cebuchamber.org.

Best regards,