Philippines: Officials to enact general community quarantine with heightened rules in Metro Manila, surrounding areas May 15-31 /update 6

Event

Officials will ease protocols and implement the general community quarantine (GCQ), the third-strictest level of rules, in Metro Manila and the surrounding provinces of Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal, May 15-31, amid continued COVID-19 activity. The government will, however, maintain heightened restrictions, such as the continued suspension of nonessential travel to and from the region. Nonessential mass gatherings will remain banned, while religious services can take place with protocols, like a cap of 10 percent of the venue's capacity. Dining in will be capped at half the venue's seating capacity. Outdoor tourist locations can operate with up to 30 percent of the capacity. Entertainment venues, like internet cafes and amusement parks, and venues of meetings and conferences will remain closed. Public transport can operate at a reduced capacity with health protocols, such as maintaining social distancing of 1 meter (3 feet) between passengers.

Local authorities in some localities may enforce stricter rules. Metro Manila is enacting a nightly 22:00-04:00 curfew. Exceptions are in place for essential workers, among others. Some Metro Manila cities, including Manila and San Juan, have reissued quarantine passes for residents to present to officials when in public.

Increased security measures will probably remain in place across Metro Manila and the surrounding provinces to impose the curbs. Officials have set up more than 1,100 checkpoints in and around Metro Manila to enforce the protocols. Significant business and transport disruptions will likely continue.

Advice

Strictly heed the instructions of authorities. Avoid all nonessential operations in areas impacted by restrictions. Confirm appointments. Remain cooperative if approached and questioned by law enforcement officers. Make allowances for likely business disruptions.