Iloilo City has recently launched the USWAG Iloilo City Molecular Laboratory in Barangay San Pedro, Molo. The blessing and inauguration were led by Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas and government officials.
The laboratory, according to Executive Order 184, is a health facility where COVID-19 testing can be done. The facility aims to augment the testing capacities of COVID-19 laboratories in the city to ensure a faster turnaround of test results.
“COVID-19 testing has been a challenge for Iloilo City since we only have limited testing centers, and having quick results means containing the virus and isolating those who have been infected by the virus will be much easier,”states Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas in a social media post.
“Today, we had the blessing of our Uswag Molecular Laboratory to cater the COVID-19 needs of our residents. Initially, we can test almost 400 specimens a day, and can be able to release the results after 1 or 2 days. Eventually, we could be able to test more specimens to effectively fight this pandemic. We are hopeful to open the laboratory on November 16, and shall also cater our fellows from the province when needed. I appreciate the presence of Gov. Toto Defensor as our guest of honor during this event,” he adds.
It can be recalled that The Iloilo City Government got a go signal for the establishment of its own testing laboratory after the Department of Health, together with the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine and World Health Organization inspected the proposed location of the Iloilo City’s COVID Laboratory and Dormitory in Molo District.
“This is another milestone for us. I am grateful for everyone who extended their efforts to accomplish this project. I am also thankful for the strong relationship of the city and the province by working hand in hand to combat the challenges brought by the pandemic. Together, we will heal as one,” Treñas concludes.
