A labor group called for understanding the plight of workers in the face of unified curfews being enforced in Manila, instead of arresting them.
The earlier curfew was implemented with the aim of reducing the number of cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) which is now steadily rising.
“Panawagan namin sa kapulisan, maging tolerant sila sa mga simpleng mamamayan na ‘to, mga manggagawa po ito. Isang taon pong halos naapektuhan ng pandemic, walang trabaho, ngayon pa lang nakakabawi, dadagdagan pa natin ng mga pasanin at problema dahil sa paghuli sa kanila?” said Defend Jobs Philippines Spokesperson Lloyd Magsoy.
It will be recalled that many sectors closed their businesses or laid off employees due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The businesses that have opened have limited capacity and are only now starting to rise.
According to the latest data from the National Capital Region Police Office, 1,449 people were arrested on the first night of the implementation of the unified curfew, which is from 10 pm to 5 am and will run for 2 weeks.
This includes some informal workers such as masseuse “Jenny” who were curfewed in Makati.
Give consideration to workers in implementing curfew – labor group
Some tricycle drivers were also caught trying to extend their work time.
“Kailangan po talaga ng pera. ‘Yong ginagawa naming bahay kasi paaalisin na kami sa bakanteng lote,” said tricycle driver “Menandro.”
The PNP previously stated that the curfew does not cover essential goods delivery riders and drivers, shuttle service drivers, call center and late-night shift workers, construction workers, media practitioners, fast food services employees, travelers to or from the airport, and frontline law enforcement and security workers.
According to the Malabon local government, they are giving special consideration to those who work and do business in the Pondohan ng Malabon so that the curfew will not affect the fish trade that is traditionally active at night.
Human rights lawyer Atty. Edre Olalia reminded that violators of the curfew should not be taken to the precinct, covered court or other places if the action stated in their ordinances is only a “warning”.