Metro Manila is going into lockdown mode on Aug. 6 for the second time this year in a bid to control the spread of the highly contagious Delta variant of coronavirus.
With over 500 days since the first lockdown in March 2020, Filipinos are already battling pandemic fatigue with the seemingly repetitive cycle of lockdowns -- ECQ, MECQ, GCQ and MGCQ.
There is a need to "sacrifice" so that the country "can save" the economy for the 'Ber' months--where spending is usually highest, Interior Sec. Eduardo Año said two days before the ECQ.
"Sacrifice tayo ngayon para magkaroon tayo ng mas magandang economic activities after the lockdown," he said in a virtual townhall.
How different is the new enhanced community quarantine or ECQ from previous ones? Here's what officials have to say.
More vaccines are available
For the two-week ECQ, MMDA Chairman Benhur Abalos said the capital region is eyeing to administer COVID-19 vaccines to 12.6 million Metro Manila residents to protect some 45% of its population.
"We're trying to reach the biggest number in Metro Manila," he said, noting that the daily vaccination target for the region is set at 250,000.
"Now, we have more vaccines and that’s why we’re doing more vaccinations. This time around, mas madami na ang protected," Cabinet Sec. Karlo Nograles said.
More industries allowed to operate
For the latest season of ECQ in Metro Manila, more industries are allowed to operate and the list of authorized persons outside of their residences have been expanded to include those who need to get their COVID-19 vaccine.
"We’ve widened already the list of essential industries that we’ve allowed to operate," Nograles said.
Public transportation is available
Unlike the initial lockdown where strict stay-at-home policies were implemented, the latest ECQ will allow the operation of public transportation.
Only APORs are allowed to travel and board public transportation. Non-essential and leisure travel however is prohibited.
Stricter border control
Crossing of regional borders is prohibited unless the trip is necessary. Law enforcers, according to Año, will be stricter in border control to avoid the further spread of the Delta variant to other areas.
"Mas mahigpit ngayon in restricting movement and controlling the borders," he said.
The two-week ECQ in Metro Manila is scheduled to expire on Aug. 20 but officials have said that an extension is possible depending on the COVID-19 situation in the capital region.
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