It is essential that the National Archives of the Philippines (NAP) ensure the safety and security of records and archival collections during the enhanced community quarantine. Site inspections of repositories and laboratories were conducted by archivists and records analysts on March 25, 2020. Offices were likewise checked to make sure that no appliances were left running and that everything not being used was unplugged. All NAP sites in Luneta, Paco, Port Area, as well as in Cavite, Cebu, and Davao were covered by the inspection.
Checklists were prepared by the Archives Collection and Access Division (ACAD), Records Center Division (RCD) and Archives Preservation Division (APD) for use in reviewing the situation of the different facilities. Security personnel were also trained with regard to records storage standards so they could conduct safety checks on their own.
The NAP will continue to do the same throughout this period of quarantine to safeguard its treasured collections. Other government agencies are urged to vigilantly monitor their records storage facilities to ensure the integrity of their important documents.
