Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. is worried about further economic damage if the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) is extended anew.
In a press conference yesterday, April 23, Defensor said the province’s economy has already been significantly affected by the implementation of ECQ.
To mitigate the economic impact, Defensor is keen on modifying the province-wide lockdown starting May 1 until 15.
“Our basis now is the economy. We have seen the figures (on the loss). We will implement available quarantine measures while sustaining the economy,” he said.
The lockdown was originally scheduled to end on April 15 but Defensor extended it until April 30 “because of the positive cases of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19 and other developments in the province and the whole country.”
The province currently has 18 confirmed cases of the viral disease, including four deaths and three recoveries.
Defensor said the “transition plan” is now being finalized. He is set hold a meeting with mayors on Friday, April 24, to discuss the plan.
Under the proposed modified ECQ, all business establishments will be allowed to operate provided they follow strict protocols on social distancing.
“Before, the general rule is that all establishments must be closed except those offering food and basic necessities. We will change the regime so that the economy will run,” Defensor said.
Jeepneys and other means of public transportation will also be allowed to operate but passengers must maintain a distance of one meter from each other.
Travel restrictions, conduct of checkpoints, and use of quarantine passes will remain in effect.IMT
Photo by Chriscopter Aerials & KB Perspective
