MANILA – The National Capital Region (NCR) is ready for further easing of restrictions to curb the spread of SARS-coV-2, the virus that causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)
“NCR is ready based on the data we have seen, but we need the cooperation of everyone,” Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said in a virtual press conference. “Nakikita nating datos ay bumagal ang doubling rate.”
“Nakapaghanda naman po tayo ng mas maraming lugar kung saan natin ico-confine ang mga asymptomatic patients dito sa Manila,” he added.
Based on the Inter Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Disease (IATF-EID) Resolution No. 40, which is pending for President Rodrigo Duterte’s approval, Metro Manila may be downgraded to GCQ after almost two months under ECQ.
Roque said that it will be up to the local government units, in coordination with the IATF EID, to decide on implementing localized lockdowns in their areas.
Under the GCQ, “high-risk” barangays that will log more than two new cases of new COVID-19 in a seven-day monitoring will be deemed “critical zones.” Entry and exit will be barred in these areas, where patients will be isolated and their close contacts will be tested for the coronavirus
Essential and clothing stores in malls will be opened, while leisure and dine-in restaurant services are still barred. MRT, LRT, taxis and tricycles with one passengers will also be allowed./PN
