Philippines: Officials extending GCQ of varying modifications in Metro Manila and nearby provinces through July 15 due to COVID-19 /update 9

Event

Authorities have extended the general community quarantine (GCQ) protocols, the third-strictest level of rules, with varying modifications in Metro Manila and its nearby provinces through at least July 15 due to COVID-19 concerns. Metro Manila and Bulacan, and Rizal provinces will enforce GCQ with some restrictions, while Cavite and Laguna provinces will implement the more stringent GCQ with heightened restrictions. Under general GCQ rules, most workplaces and public places can operate, provided they adhere to social distancing protocols like reduced capacity. Select facilities, such as agricultural businesses, supermarkets, and utility providers, can operate on-site at full capacity. Public transport can operate at a reduced capacity with health protocols, such as maintaining social distancing of 1 meter (3 feet) between passengers. Nonessential mass gatherings remain banned.

Under GCQ with some restrictions and heightened restrictions, several facilities can operate under tighter limits as compared to typical GCQ protocols. Personal care services and outdoor tourism sites can operate at 50 and 30 percent of the capacity, respectively, while indoor dining-in venues can open at 20 and 40 percent of the capacity, respectively.

Officials continue to allow leisure travel from Metro Manila and Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal provinces to areas enacting modified general community quarantine (MGCQ), the least stringent level of rules. Travelers must comply with protocols, like minimizing the number of stops to and from the tourism sites. It is unclear whether other types of non-essential travel out of Metro Manila and the surrounding provinces are allowed.

Authorities in some localities continue to enforce stricter rules. Officials in Metro Manila are enacting a nightly 00:00-04:00 curfew. Exceptions are in place for essential workers as well as for certain specific circumstances. Some Metro Manila cities have reissued quarantine passes for residents to present to officials when in public.

Increased security will probably remain in place across Metro Manila and the surrounding provinces for the duration of the controls. Officials have set up 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 courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by law enforcement officers. Make allowances for likely business disruptions.