Checkpoint inspections tightened in NCR Plus bubble

There is only one instruction for the police at the checkpoint entering Muntinlupa City from Laguna: those who do not have legitimate travel such as work are not allowed to enter.

This is after the implementation of stricter general community quarantine in the NCR Plus bubble (National Capital Region, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Riza)l for 2 weeks due to the spike of COVID-19 cases.

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As a result, a man who was supposed to refuel at a nearby gas station early Monday morning was not allowed to pass.

The guards stopped him at the checkpoint and searched for another gas station.

Upon passing through the checkpoint, it is necessary to present ID and certificate of employment as proof of essential travel.

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Interior and Local Government Undersecretary Bernardo Florece explained that it is possible to travel inside the GCQ bubble, dubbed “NCR Plus bubble,” but it is prohibited to enter or exit.

He also said that only essential travel is possible to get out or enter the 4 borders of the NCR Plus bubble.

Also read: DOH prepares to increase bed allocation for COVID-19 cases

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Checkpoint inspections tightened in NCR Plus bubble

“’Yong tinatawag natin na essential, unang una ‘yong magtatrabaho, magpo-procure ng goods and services, APOR (authorized persons outside residence). Mayroon din tayong mga exception dito kung ikaw ay for medical treatment then for humanitarian considerations,” said Florece sa Teleradyo.

“Kung uuwi sila sa probinsiya, allowed pa rin naman ‘yan. They just have to show ‘yong ID nila na nakalagay ang address nila, just to show ‘yong address nila. Ang hinihigpitan lang naman natin yung for leisure or tourism,” he added.

During rush hour, traffic increased to the checkpoint, but unlike when the enhanced community quarantine was first implemented, vehicles were moving faster.

“Dapat lang maghigpit kasi ang iba gala lang nang gala… kasi dumadami ang mga kaso,”
said motorcycle rider Jesse Ponce when asked if he was in favor of the new restrictions.

Police also reminded passing jeeps to wear face masks and face shields.

On Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City, the Inter-Agency Council for Traffic did not catch any buses violating health protocols.