PNP braces for granular lockdowns

MANILA, Philippines — Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Guillermo Eleazar yesterday ordered police commanders to start preparations for the enforcement of granular lockdowns to contain the COVID-19 pandemic.

Eleazar instructed police chiefs to coordinate with their respective local government units to determine the measures that will be imposed for granular lockdowns.

“I have tasked police commanders to start coordinating with local government officials and initiate discussions regarding the possible implementation of granular lockdowns starting next month,” he said in a statement.

Interior Secretary Eduardo Año earlier said the national government is gearing up for a policy shift towards imposing granular lockdowns in areas with an outbreak of COVID-19 cases instead of placing entire regions or provinces under community quarantine.

While it remains a proposal pending approval by President Duterte, Eleazar said it is better for them to prepare early to avoid confusion on the ground.

He said police officers and barangay officials should work together for the orderly enforcement of granular lockdowns.

Eleazar also ordered police officers to prepare the deployment of personnel once granular lockdowns are implemented in certain areas.