Cebu City residents still out and about despite ECQ

Some Cebu City residents continue to leave their homes, sometimes in pairs or groups, despite the stringent enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) reimposed by President Rodrigo Duterte to stem the continued rise of coronavirus infections in the area.

According to Ian Cruz’ Tuesday report on “24 Oras,” many Cebu City residents were caught walking outside, often without observing physical distancing and sometimes even without face masks.

Clusters of people were also spotted at a park, while several children were caught playing in another area without face masks.

Residents told GMA News that the majority of people observed ECQ regulations when it was first implemented in March.

Despite the reimposition of ECQ by the national government on June 15, however, residents continue to leave their homes in search of food or ways to generate income. 

Meanwhile, travelers who flew into Cebu City were surprised by the seemingly relaxed restrictions at the airport.

“Mas mahigpit doon sa Maynila, ang daming proseso, parang nagulat kami parang okay lang,” Roy Mirallo said.

Vincent Cristobal said he prepared documents such as a medical certificate but he was never asked to present them.

“Akala ko pagdating dito may mga dokumento ring hinahanap,” he said.

The Philippine National Police earlier said it would deploy 100 more cops to enforce the ECQ. 

Duterte also blamed the spike in COVID-19 infections in the city to residents’ “hardheadedness.” —Julia Mari Ornedo/LDF, GMA News