Senators demand clarity on implementation of community quarantine in NCR

Senators Risa Hontiveros and Grace Poe on Friday demanded clear guidelines for the implementation of the community quarantine measures in Metro Manila as the number of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases in the country continues to increase.

"I urge the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases to immediately release specific guidelines and parameters of the community quarantine being imposed in Metro Manila, especially its effects on the daily lives of Filipinos and of those who work within the metro but reside elsewhere," Hontiveros said in a statement.

"Tama na ang pagiging magulo. The people have the right to a coherent government. There is a lot to clarify," she added.

On Thursday night, President Rodrigo Duterte announced that the country raised Code Red Sub-Level 2 over the COVID-19 threat.

Many citizens were left with questions as to the implementation of the suspension of land, domestic air, and domestic sea travel to and from Metro Manila from March 15 to April 14, 2020.

Hontiveros also urged the local government units and the Department of Social Welfare and Development to ensure that there is enough food supply for the public during the quarantine period.

Immediate cash assistance shall also be provided to those who would be laid off due to the economic impact of the outbreak, she said.

She added that health workers must receive sufficient protective gear, compensation, and other forms of support in the conduct of their duties.

Meanwhile, Poe said that "clear-cut guidelines" on the community quarantine procedures are crucial to properly inform the public and ensure the effective implementation of the precautionary steps.

"Concerned agencies must see to it that the community quarantine in Metro Manila would not disrupt public utility services. Everyone must be guaranteed clean water supply, sufficient food, credible and up-to-date information, reliable means of communication and transportation," she said in a separate statement.

The Philippines has 52 confirmed cases of COVID-19 as of Thursday night. Five of these cases were fatal.—AOL, GMA News