Bicol’s 1st LGU-owned RT-PCR lab inaugurated, opened on Oct. 13

By Ana-Liza S. Macatangay

The first-ever local government-owned and operated RT-PCR laboratory in the Bicol region was inaugurated and formally opened in Naga City on Oct. 13.

Naga City Mayor Nelson Legacion said that the RT-PCR lab is part of the city government’s objective to fast-track the collection of swab results for Nagueños and their immediate close contacts who are exhibiting symptoms of Covid-19.

He said that the faster the results are out, the earlier that cases will be detected, thus, lowering the chance of further spreading the virus.

“An malinaw, na kita gabos igde sa local na gobyerno kan Naga, gabos na opisyales kan satong syudad talagang nagsasagibo nin magkakanigong aksyon pasiring sa mayor na desisyon na mapundo na an Covid-19 (One thing is clear, all of us, including the city officials, are doing our best to attain this major decision to stop the spread of Covid-19, Legacion added.

Known as the Naga City Molecular Laboratory, the facility is worth P13.5 million, P5 million of which came from the Angat-Buhay Program of the office of Vice President Leni Gerona-Robredo.

The Department of Health (DOH) issued the lab a license to operate this month.

Legacion stated that with the molecular lab in the city, Nagueños can expect high-quality and excellent molecular diagnostic services, which will ensure public safety, through its accurate and reliable results.

The RT-PCR lab can process 80 tests a day on an 8-hour schedule and can be ramped up up to 200 tests if the lab operating hous will be extended.

City Events Protocol and Public Information Office (CEPPIO) chief Allen Reondanga said that they are targeting a six-day per week operation time, given the two-day spoil limit of swab samples. The one-day break period will be allotted for the decontamination of the facility.

The lab services will be free for those with Covid-19 symptoms including their close contacts. Those who wish to be voluntarily tested can avail of the services at P2,800.00 with 20 percent discount for Senior Citizens and Persons with Disability (PWDs). (PIA5/Camarines Sur)