On May 28, President Rodrigo Duterte announced that the National Capital Region will be placed under general community quarantine. This is in line with the recommendation of the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) on the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases and Metro Manila’s mayors.

[READ: Metro Manila mayors recommend NCR transition to GCQ with modified coding, localized lockdown]

The region, which is seen as a “high-to-moderate-risk area,” will be placed under GCQ from Jun. 1 to Jun. 15. Here are some of the guidelines that apply:

Localized lockdowns

To prevent the further spread of the virus, a zoning scheme will be implemented by the National Task Force on COVID-19. Under this scheme, barangays and streets with a high number of cases will still be placed under lockdown.

These localized lockdowns will enable more sectors to reopen during the GCQ, in an effort to revive the country’s economy amid the pandemic.

[READ: Gov’t eyes enforcing barangay lockdowns with high number of COVID-19 cases]

Limited public transport

Public transportation will also be allowed to resume operations in reduced capacity. To reinforce social distancing measures, trains, buses, shuttle services and point-to-point buses will have limited passenger loads.

Bus and jeepney operations are still suspended, as the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board has yet to finalize rerouting plans.

[READ: DOTr releases guidelines for PUVs in GCQ areas]

Aside from limited passenger loads, safety guidelines such as the mandatory use of face masks and gloves for drivers, as well as thorough disinfection of vehicles and terminals will be implemented.

Less restrictions on movement

Public movement will be less restricted, as residents between the ages of 21 to 59 will now be allowed to leave their households. Children under 21 years of age, senior citizens and people with pre-existing health risks will still be required to stay home.

Although more people will be allowed to go out during GCQ, movement is still limited to availing essential services or going to work. Mass gatherings, whether work or church-related, remain barred during this quarantine.

[READ: Reminder from WHO: Despite easing of quarantine restrictions, staying home still more important]

Header image by Grig C. Montegrande for Philippine Daily Inquirer

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Got any concerns about the quarantine? Call PNP’s “Helpline 16677”

No, essential workers don’t need travel authority to go to work