Philippines: Officials ban nonessential travel to and from Greater Manila through April 4 /update 1

Event

Philippine officials are imposing enhanced movement and gathering restrictions in and around Metro Manila through April 4 in response to increased COVID-19 activity. Under the enhanced general community quarantine (GCQ) orders, all nonessential travel to and from the region, which includes Metro Manila and the provinces of Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal, is banned. Officials have also banned nonessential gatherings throughout the area. Several classes of nonessential businesses, including cinemas, are to remain closed for the duration of the controls. Social distancing requirements will be enforced at businesses that remain operational. Individuals below the age of 18 are to remain within their residences. Officials have announced a nightly 22:00-05:00 curfew throughout the region.

In addition to the regional travel, business, and gathering controls, officials in parts of Metro Manila are enforcing stricter localized controls banning all nonessential movement within specific areas. Authorities have placed 14 barangays in Manila on lockdown through March 25; similar controls will be imposed in 16 barangays March 23-27. Officials in other areas could order localized stay-home orders at short notice.

Increased security measures will be imposed to enforce regional travel controls, the overnight curfew, and localized lockdown orders. Authorities plan to maintain roadblocks in provincial border areas to prevent travel to and from the region. Restrictions will prompt significant business and transport disruptions.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Remain polite and nonconfrontational if questioned by security personnel. Confirm all transport reservations to and from Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal. Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Make allowances for likely business disruptions.