House on Lockdown as Metro Manila COVID Cases Surge

The House of Representatives temporarily shuttered its Quezon City complex on Thursday as a precautionary measure in light of the rising number of COVID-19 cases in Metro Manila.

The temporary lockdown of the complex will run from Thursday, March 18 until Sunday, March 21, the House said.

"Everyone is enjoined to stay at home during the lockdown not just to protect ourselves but also to help arrest the spread of the virus," it said.

Committee hearings and other activities will push through remotely either via live streaming or teleconferencing, it added.

"The House Members and the employees concerned will have access through the usual zoom and live streaming platforms during the scheduled committee meetings, public hearings, and other events in the House of Representatives during the four-day lockdown," the House said.

The Philippines in recent days has been plagued by a surge in COVID-19 infections as well as new virus variants. This week, Metro Manila started a two-week region-wide uniform curfew in a bid to limit movement to curb virus transmission.

The public is repeatedly reminded to strictly observe minimum health standards--wear face mask and face shield, proper handwashing, and physical distancing to help curb the spread of the virus.

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