Año backs NCR mayors’ suggestion of extending GCQ until December

Interior Secretary Eduardo Año on Friday expressed support to the recommendation of Metro Manila mayors to implement a general community quarantine in the region until December.

Speaking to reporters, Año said the National Capital Region is still considered as the epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"I support that particular stand of MMDA and the Metro Manila mayors. Sa ngayon kasi nasa three digits pa 'yung daily cases sa National Capital Region, ito pa rin 'yung sinasabi nating epicenter," Año said.

"So dapat huwag tayong magluluwag, lalo ngayon malapit na ang Christmas, ang tendency ng mga tao ay mag-get together, mag-party, 'yan ang pinakamahirap 'pag payagan natin 'yan," he added.

Having parties is not allowed in GCQ areas, Año stressed.

"Gusto natin maitawid natin itong Pasko na ito na kakaunti lang 'yung COVID cases natin," he said.

Earlier, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority general manager Jojo Garcia said the mayors are eyeing for a gradual easing of restrictions amid the pandemic.

He added that the mayors discouraged the reopening of cinemas, resumption of concerts, and holding Christmas parties in private sectors.

So far, the Philippines has 363,888 COVID-19 infections. The Department of Health said Metro Manila still tops the regions with COVID-19 cases in the last two weeks. — RSJ, GMA News