ILOILO City – Business establishments in this southern city are enjoined to apply for a Safety Seal so they can operate with bigger capacities while the city is under a modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ).
The Safety Seal certification is a voluntary certification scheme that affirms an establishment’s compliance to the minimum public health standards set by the government for the protection of both consumers and personnel from the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
“If establishments have a Safety Seal, customers are assured of a safe visit and everyone is protected,” said Mayor Jerry Treñas.
Treñas, days prior to the MECQ extension announcement, convened the business sector and discussed plans.
The Philippine Chamber of Commerce Inc. (PCCI), Iloilo Economic Development Foundation (ILED) Inc., Iloilo Business Club, and malls, among others supported the MECQ provided businesses apply for a Safety Seal.
“While we are facing a surge in COVID-19 cases we are trying to balance our responses with measures to revive the economy,” said Treñas.
He also suggested that spas, fitness centers or gyms and personal care services apply for the Safety Seal in case his appeal that they be allowed to operate gets the approval of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases.
Meanwhile, Norman Tabud, chief of the city government’s Business Permits and Licensing Division (BPLD), said they have issued 43 Safety Seals to date; 106 inspected and approved for Safety Seal Certification; and 63 pending for quick response (QR) code generation.
To request for Safety Seal, business owners must email bplo.safetyseal2021@gmail.com. A checklist will be sent for them to accomplish.
Once complied, the validation team composed of BPLD, City Health Office, Bureau of Fire Protection, City Compliance Team, and Philippine National Police will schedule an inspection to the establishment.
If found compliant, they will be approved for issuance of the Safety Seal.
“The Safety Seal is valid for six months only then they have to renew their application. But this is voluntary,” stressed Tabud.
The Iloilo City Safety Seal Certification Program Inspection and Certification Committee – with the BPLD as head of the Inspection Team and secretariat – was created through Executive Order No. 60 Series of 2021.
Under the program, BPLD is in-charge of inspecting business establishments; Department of the Interior and Local Government for government agencies and offices; and Department of Trade and Industry for supermarkets and grocery stores. (With a report from Iloilo City PIO/PN)
