The MRT said late Wednesday it placed its office staff on work-from-home arrangement after more workers at its depot were confirmed to have COVID-19. Train operations are unaffected.
There were zero cases of COVID-19 among MRT-3 stations personnel who interact with commuters, the MRT said.
Three more COVID-19 cases were reported at the depot on Wednesday, bringing the total in that area alone to 36. In total, 42 MRT workers tested positive for the virus and according to an ABS-CBN News report, one of them died.
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Those who need to report to work physically at the depot office must present a negative RT-PCR test and undergo health screening prior to entry.
The MRT's maintenance service provider, Sumitomo-Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, reported six cases. None of these positive cases meet passengers and are under quarantine.
Regular train operations will be maintained as none of the positive cases are assigned at stations, but observance of health and safety protocols will still be implemented to lessen the risk of transmission among station personnel and the riding public.
Protocols include limited capacity in trains, wearing of personal protective equipment for stations personnel, health screening of entering passengers and personnel, regular disinfection of trains and facilities, placement of disinfection stations, deployment of transport marshals to ensure observance of health and safety measures, and constant reminders and enforcement of the Seven Commandments for commuters.
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Face masks and face shields are mandatory for passengers, along with observance of physical distancing.