[ad_1]
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 4) – The COVID-19 working group does not rule out the possibility of modifying closure measures implemented in Metro Manila and other high-risk areas, but will continue to monitor data and scientific developments before devising a post-May 15 strategy, Malacañang said Monday. .
In a virtual press conference, presidential spokesman Harry Roque said the task force would still have to weigh the health and economic implications of the proposed move to “locate” the quarantine at virus hotspots.
“As I said, it all depends on science,” he said. “And it also depends on the economy.”
“That is a possibility, na pwedeng maibaba ang ECQ (Enhanced Community Quarantine) sa Metro Manila, “explained Roque.” Everything is possible. In pwede rin na ‘yung mga Hot spots sa Metro Manila will remain under ECQ. It will depend doon sa data na makakalap natin bago mag-decide ang IATF (Interinstitutional Working Group) kung ano ang gagawin May 15 or earlier. “
[Translation: That is one possibility, that we can lift the ECQ in Metro Manila. Anything is possible. It also possible for hotspots in Metro Manila to remain under ECQ. It will depend on the data that we collect before the IATF can decide on what to do on or before May 15.]Roque recognized that the next best economic move would be to open up some areas that can help restart the economy and create jobs for people. However, he reiterated that the decision would need to be balanced for the health and safety of the community.
The ECQ in the capital region and other high-risk areas and provinces of COVID has been extended for another two weeks, and the number of virus cases continues to increase day by day. Meanwhile, regions classified as least risk areas experienced a gradual decrease in closure measures under the “general community quarantine” policy.
Some scientists, researchers and business groups have suggested implementing localized blockades after May 15, arguing that the move would be a mutually beneficial strategy to isolate the virus and restart the economy alike.
Experts have also proposed a gradual and “calibrated” transition to quarantine, where some economic activity will be allowed along with measures to control the spread of the disease.
READ: Duterte adviser suggests localized blockades in Metro Manila after May 15
To date, the Philippines has recorded 9,223 cases of the infectious disease, including 1,214 recoveries and 607 deaths.
[ad_2]
