Metro Manila Loosens Up to GCQ From June 1 to 15

President Rodrigo Duterte has announced Metro Manila will be placed under General Community Quarantine (GCQ) from June 1 to 15. He made the declaration in a televised speech tonight, May 28.

A day earlier,  the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) came up with the recommendation that Metro Manila be placed under GCQ from June 1 to 15. 

Aside from Metro Manila, the other places to be put under GCQ are Region 2, Region 3, Region 4A, Albay, Pangasinan, and Davao City. This implementation will allow more sectors to reopen as the government tries to revive the economy amidst the pandemic.

The rest of the country will be placed under Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ).

Once the GCQ takes effect, mass transportation will be allowed, but with limited capacity: Bus and jeepney operations will remain suspended, however, train systems will be allowed. Transport network vehicles and point-to-point buses will be authorized to operate as well.

Residents in GCQ areas will be allowed to go out except those below 21 and over 60 years old, because their health may be more vulnerable to the disease. Mass gatherings, however, are still prohibited.

The following businesses will remain closed during GCQ:

• Gyms, fitness salons, sports facilities
• Cinemas, theaters, karaoke bars
• Kids' entertainment (play spaces and rides)
• Libraries, museums
• Beaches, resorts, tourists destinations
• Facial care centers, massage parlors, waxing services

As of May 28, the Department of Health reported 539 new cases, contributing to the 15,588 total confirmed cases in the country.