COVID-19 cases expected to decrease due to more stringent GCQ

The government hopes to reduce COVID-19 cases in the country by 25 percent as a result of additional GCQ quarantine restrictions implemented in Metro Manila and neighboring provinces, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said Monday.

“We’re estimating that with these measures and at the end of the 2-week period, that the numbers would drop by at least 25%, but we’re hoping for more,” said Roque.

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“Ang tingin po namin it is a realistic goal for the next two weeks. Remember, two weeks lang po ito and we hope we can sustain the gains afterwards,” he added.

Starting this Monday, the National Capital Region (NCR), Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal have been placed under general community quarantine (GCQ) but there are said to be additional restrictions. It will be implemented until April 4.

Malacañang has repeatedly insisted that no lockdown is happening but only essential travel will be allowed in and out of the so-called “NCR Plus” bubble.

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Only authorized persons outside of residence (APOR) will be allowed to travel as well as overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) going abroad, returning OFWs, health and emergency personnel, and government officials.

There are no restrictions when it comes to trips inside the bubble.

COVID-19 cases expected to decrease due to more stringent GCQ

Inside the bubble, all mass gatherings, as well as religious gatherings, are also prohibited.

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Weddings, baptisms, and funerals will be allowed but only up to 10 people can attend.

It is also forbidden to eat inside cafes and restaurants but outdoor or al fresco dining is allowed with up to 50 percent of the venue capacity of the restaurant.

There will also be a unified curfew from 10 pm to 5 am.

Those aged 17 and under and 66 and over as well as those who are immunocompromised, with comorbidities, and other health risks are also prohibited from going out unless they take essential goods and go to work.

Meanwhile, it will also allow the operation of gyms up to 75 percent operating capacity and spas up to 50 percent capacity.

Despite the GCQ restrictions, no help can be expected for the affected workers, Roque said.

“Hindi naman po natin pinipigil magtrabaho ang ating mga kababayan eh. Hindi na po tayo dapat magbigay ng ganoong ayuda dahil puwede pong maghanapbuhay ang lahat,” said Roque.