Zamora prefers GCQ for San Juan

MANILA, Philippines — San Juan Mayor Francis Zamora said he wanted the city to remain under general community quarantine or GCQ ahead of the government’s decision on new quarantine measures.

“With what I’ve been seeing every day, GCQ can continue as businesses were able to resume and at the same time minimum health standards are being followed,” Zamora told reporters on Wednesday.

He urged the residents to observe physical distancing and wear face masks in public places.

Stiffer penalties against violators of quarantine protocols will be implemented beginning Aug. 3, according to Zamora.

The city council earlier passed Ordinance 45, increasing fines to P5,000 and penalty of up to three months in prison.

“Those who will not report COVID-19 positive cases among family members and employees will be fined and jailed,” Zamora said.

As of July 27, San Juan posted 816 cases of COVID-19, including 49 deaths and 484 recoveries.