Robredo backs extension of enhanced community quarantine vs. COVID-19 threat

Vice President Leni Robredo on Sunday said she wanted an extension of the enhanced community quarantine over Luzon, as the measure helped control further transmission of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

“Sang-ayon ako dahil sa nakikita natin na projection. Makakabuti na i-flatten ‘yung curve kung hahabaan pa ito,”she said in an interview on ANC.

However, she underscored that the government should make sure the public really understands the purpose of this measure and assure them there is enough relief for affected families.

“Crucial na naiintindihan ng tao kung bakit kailangan ito gawin. Kapag hindi nila naiitindihan, ‘yung resistance nandyan,” she said.

“Number two, 'yung kanilang basic na pangangailangan ay naaasikaso,” she added.

In line with this, Robredo urged the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to expedite the distribution of relief under the  Social Amelioration Program.

On Saturday, Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., chief implementer of the national plan against COVID-19, said they are still studying if the enhanced community quarantine will be extended.

"Maganda po ang nagawa ng lockdown. Na-slow down ng lockdown ang spread ng virus. With that, nakita namin na malaki ang possibility na magkakaroon ng lockdown ng 15 more days," Galvez said.

On Sunday, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said the measures against COVID-19 should be maintained as the Department of Health conducts more testing to have an accurate picture of the situation in the Philippines.

“Hindi puwedeng magpaluwag tayo. Ganu'n din sa Pilipinas. Hindi puwedeng luwagan ang mga hakbang na ating nilatag, isinasagawa,” Duque said.

“Mahirap magsalita sa kasalukuyan dahil tinitignan pa rin natin 'yung datos ng bilang. Dapat bantayan pa rin natin,” he added.

President Rodrigo Duterte issued an order placing Luzon under enhanced community quarantine starting March 17 to address the threat from COVID-19.

The enhanced community quarantine will last until April 13. —Joviland Rita/KG, GMA News