PH Government Allows Religious gatherings, Essential Work in GCQ

PH Gov’t Allows Masses, Essential Work in GCQ Areas

PH – Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said the Philippine government allowed religious gatherings and essential work in areas under “general community quarantine” (GCQ).

Philippine President Rodrigo Roa Duterte recently announced that Metro Manila and other ‘high-risk’ areas will remain under “enhanced community quarantine” (ECQ) until May 15. He also announced that a GCQ will be inforced in “moderate-risk” or “low-risk” areas.

GCQ is more relaxed compared to enhanced community quarantine. Areas under GCQ, businesses and mass transportation are allowed to resume but with limited capacity.

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Photo Source: Metro News Central

Based on a report from GMA News, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said religious gatherings and essential work will be allowed under GCQ. He said ‘social distancing’ should be observed.

“‘Yung pagbabawal po sa mass gatherings ay applicable po pero ‘yung mga essential work gatherings and religious activities, pupuwede na pong magpatuloy provided na may social distancing na at least two meters,” he said.

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Photo Source: TNT Abante

According to the report, Roque said the “6 feet of distance” rule should be observed in public transportation and religious meetings. They have to wear a face shield, face masks, or other protective gear during the event.

“Sa transportasyon, one meter, sa religious and work meetings dapat two meters ang distansya,” Roque said.

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Photo Source: Inquirer

Based on the report, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) chief Eduardo Año urged church officials to come up with ways to ensure ‘physical distancing’ during mass gatherings.

“Nasa atin pong religious leaders na paano ito ipapatupad, ginagawa naman na ito before na,” he said.

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Photo Source: Rhode Island Catholic

In a previous article, Surigao del Sure Rep. Johnny Pimentel encourage retailers to hire temporary or part-time workers amid the coronavirus crisis. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said more than 2 million workers were displaced by the COVID-19 pandemic.

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