Some QC residents flout health protocols on first day of return to MECQ

Some residents and business owners in Quezon City (QC) were caught violating health protocols on Tuesday, the first day of the reimposition of the modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) over Metro Manila and neighboring areas.

According to Bernadette Reyes’ report on “24 Oras,” long lines with no social distancing formed outside drug stores, money remittance centers, and the market.

Some shoppers at the Balintawak Market were also seen disregarding social distancing measures.

Other residents were caught not wearing their face masks properly, citing difficulty in breathing when the mask is on.

The QC Task Force Disiplina made rounds earlier on Tuesday to catch violators.

Along NIA Road, two barber shops were also found operating despite the return to MECQ.

“Walang pagkain kapag hindi ka nagbukas e. Sana maintindihan naman nila kasi ito lang naman ‘yung pinagkukuhaan ng pangkain sa araw araw,” one barber said.

An eatery in Barangay Commonwealth was also found allowing customers to dine in with no enforcement of social distancing.

Meanwhile, local authorities reminded residents to always bring their quarantine passes when going out.

“Hindi ‘yun pupuwedeng gamitin para magtambay o magkumpulan. Huhulihin pa rin natin sila and puwede nating bawiin ‘yung quarantine pass,” Barangay Pinyahan chairman Carl Lipnica said.

The QC government earlier reinstated the liquor ban and several other restrictions that will be in effect until August 18. 

Malacañang earlier said financial assistance for vulnerable households would depend on Congress and local government units. —Julia Mari Ornedo/LDF, GMA News