PNP: Parents liable for kids caught outdoors in NCR amid COVID-19 restrictions

Philippine National Police chief Police General Guillermo Eleazar on Friday warned parents that they could be held liable if their children were caught outdoors in Metro Manila.

In a statement, Eleazar reminded that the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) clarified that children are still prohibited from going out of their homes despite the lowering to Alert Level 3.  They are allowed outdoors only on certain conditions such as accessing medical treatment.

“Maaaring kayo ang managot kung maabutan sila ng ating kapulisan na pakalat-kalat sa lansangan o kaya’y nasa galaan,” he said.

(You could be held liable if your children are caught on the streets or leisure areas.)

Earlier, Malacanang said children remain barred from going out because they are not yet vaccinated against COVID-19. 

The vaccination of minors aged 12 to 17 and with comorbidities started on October 15. 

The PNP chief made the statement following reports that children were already seen in public places, such as leisure parks, when the Alert Level 4 was downgraded to 3 in the National Capital Region.

On Tuesday, the Metro Manila Council approved the intrazonal and interzonal travel of minors, provided they are accompanied by adult guardians.

Minors will be allowed in private vehicles and public utility vehicles.

But the intrazonal and interzonal travels are still subject to reasonable restrictions based on age and comorbidities, as determined by the local government units, MMDA chairperson Benhur Abalos said.—LDF, GMA News