Cebu imposes enhanced community quarantine amid COVID-19 threat

The province of Cebu has been placed under enhanced community quarantine to allow for more stringent measures to contain the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Executive Order No. 5-N signed by Governor Gwendolyn Garcia states that the entry of all persons arriving from international flights will be prohibited beginning 12:01 a.m. of March 27.

Garcia, however, noted that outbound passengers would not be barred from leaving the province.

Garcia also assured the public there would be no restriction in the movement cargoes in all airports and seaports within the province, noting that shipment of basic and essential goods will be given priority.

The police and the military will assist in the implementation of the order, Garcia said.

Garcia is set to meet town and city mayors for additional guidelines and protocols in the implementation of the mandatory quarantine in the entire province.

Earlier reports indicate there is already one confirmed COVID-19 case in Cebu province.

Latest data from the Department of Health show that the Philippines has a total of 636 confirmed cases with 38 fatalities and 26 recoveries. —Anna Felicia Bajo/LBG, GMA News