Netizens React After PRO-7 Chief Wanted TSISMOSA As Contract Tracers

Mandaue City needs nearly 400 contact tracers that is why police in Central Visayas will expand their contact tracing and decide to cooperate with the community especially those described as gossipers or “tsismosa/tsismoso” to track down those who may be experiencing symptoms of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in their area.

According to Police Brigadier General Albert Ignatius Ferro, chief of the Police Regional Office (PRO) 7, gossipers usually know the latest news about other people and this may be a way to help gather information useful for the government in its bid to contain the spread of the deadly virus.

“I heard a story last night about this ‘tsismosa brigade’. They could be a good source of information. I think it was in Bulacan. It was said the help of these ‘tsismosas’ is being sought for contact tracing. So maybe, instead of rumor-mongering, they can do something to help,” said Mr. Ferro.

Contact tracing is believed to be one of the most effective tools to be able to contain the spread of the virus, which, according to the police chief, would need more contact tracers.

“Help from ‘tsismosas’ may make tracing easier,” Mr. Ferro added.

He said that if the community would only cooperate and collaborate with the government, chances of winning the battle against COVID-19 would be greater.

“As I have said in several pronouncements, it is not only the job or responsibility of the police, military, health workers, and the government. This is a responsibility of all Filipino citizens,” explained Mr. Ferro.

Meanwhile, netizens on social media react and the majority of them agree that ‘tsismosa’ and ‘tsismoso’ are the “keys” in order to make contract tracing easier for the government, while some disagree since gossipers are prone to fake information.