MMC: Don’t fear surge in cases

MANILA, Philippines — There is no need to fear the possible soaring of COVID-19 cases in Metro Manila as long as health protocols are observed by individuals, the chairman of the Metro Manila Council (MMC) said.

Residents “should strictly comply with health protocols to prevent COVID-19 cases from soaring if (general community quarantine or GCQ) is extended,” MMC chairman and Parañaque Mayor Edwin Olivarez told “The Chiefs” on OneNews/TV5 on Monday night.

He said there are ordinances on the use of face masks and shields and the observance of physical distancing.

“There are fines in place” for violators, Olivarez said.

He issued the statement after President Duterte announced that Metro Manila would be placed under GCQ for 30 days, starting yesterday, amid the increasing cases of COVID-19.

Olivarez said businesses that would be allowed to open under GCQ, like gyms and sports facilities, would be given guidelines.

Factories would also need isolation facilities to ensure that the virus would not spread among employees.

The use of cafeterias would also be regulated by shifting.

The shortened curfew across the metropolis would also provide breathing room for businesses.

Meanwhile, Olivarez lauded Manila Mayor Isko Moreno’s offer of P100,000 to barangays with no new COVID-19 cases in the next two months.