COVID-19 transmission expected to rise due to easing restrictions —OCTA expert

COVID-19 transmission is expected to increase again following recent changes in policy that will ease restrictions,  an expert from OCTA Research said.

“Ine-expect po namin magkakaroon ng bahagyang pagtaas ng transmission dahil nga sa lumuluwag ang ekonomiya, dadami po ‘yung transmission ng COVID-19,” UP assistant professor Ranjit Rye said in an interview. on GMA News TV’s Balitanghali on Wednesday.

Rye made the statement when asked about the possible effect of allowing  more people to go out of their homes as part of measures to revive the economy.

On Tuesday, Palace spokesperson Harry Roque said the Cabinet approved the suggestion of the Department of Trade and Industry to expand the age group allowed to go out.

Previously, persons below 21 years old, above 60 years old, pregnant women and those with immunodeficiency, comorbidity or other health risks were required to stay at home.

The Cabinet also backed shorter curfew hours and multiple work shifts so more workers and buyers can contribute to the economy, and the further gradual expansion of business capacity to 75 to 100%.

Rye said that the increase can be prevented from developing into a "surge" with strict observance of health protocols.

He advised the public to go out only for essential errands and discouraged them from going out for leisure activities. — Joviland Rita/BM, GMA News