MECQ extended in Greater Manila Area
President Duterte announced the extension of the Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ) in Metro Manila, and nearby Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal provinces until May 14. as the Philippines hit one million COVID19 cases.
Some provinces in the country, including Baguio City, Batangas, and Davao City, would be under the General Community Quarantine (GCQ).
While border controls will remain strict, MMDA Chairman Benhur Abalos said there will be some changes in terms of the businesses allowed to reopen. Further, Metro Manila mayors recommended the implementation of the “Flexible MECQ” – which they say is the middle ground between MECQ and GCQ. This is so more businesses will be allowed to operate.
Since the start of the COVID-19 vaccine rollout, the Philippines has so far been able to administer about 1.8 million COVID-19 vaccine doses. The government has previously announced its goal to vaccinate 70 million of its 108 million population to reopen the economy safely.
