Public Transport, Stores Temporary Shut Down As Areas Go Under MECQ
STRICTER PROTOCOLS – Some critical areas are reverted back under a modified general community quarantine (MECQ).
Yesterday, the number of COVID-19 cases in the Philippines has reached over 100,000. According to experts from the University of the Philippines, the country could see around 140,000 cases by the end of August.
Because of this, the government has decided to place Metro Manila and neighboring areas under a MECQ. As such, public transport and some businesses would be suspended with quarantine passes being required once again.
Based on an article from ABS-CBN, Duterte announced that the following areas would be reverted back into an MECQ:
- Metro Manila
- Cavite
- Laguna
- Rizal
- Bulacan
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said that residents in these areas need to temporarily go back to using a shuttle, motorcycle, bikes, and private vehicles. Meanwhile, public shuttles for medical workers would be allowed.
Furthermore, tricycles are also banned from operations. However, there are exceptions based on the guidelines provided by the Department of the Interior and Local Government and respective local government units.
As per the article, Private transport using a company shuttle is only allowed up to 50% capacity. Additionally, a special permit is required from LTFRB rented shuttles.
Personal vehicles would also be allowed given that there would only be 2 passengers per row. Moreover, bicycles, motorcycles, e-scooters are also allowed. Roque also added that supermarkets, banks, export firms, and business process outsourcing companies would be allowed to operate under the MECQ.
In terms of passes, Roque said that each family would be given 2 members who could hold a quarantine pass. However, these people must only go out during emergencies and supply runs for food/medicine.
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