Alert Level classification not appealable, LGUs told

MANILA, Philippines — Local chief executives can no longer appeal the COVID-19 alert level classification in their areas, according to the latest resolution approved by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF).

“The final alert level classifications cannot be appealed,” acting presidential spokesman Karlo Nograles told a press briefing yesterday.

The Department of Health determines the alert level in provinces, highly urbanized cities and independent component cities for final approval of the IATF.

Nograles said recommendations for alert level classifications would be given in time for implementation on the 15th and the end of the month.

He said assessment of areas would be conducted weekly to determine those that require immediate escalation.

“Alert level escalations may be done at any time within the implementation period if warranted. However, de-escalations shall only be done at the end of the set implementation period,” Nograles said.

The IATF started the nationwide implementation of the COVID-19 Alert Level System on Nov. 22. It was initially implemented in Metro Manila.

Under an executive order President Duterte issued last week, the system is to be implemented in four phases.

The classification focuses on granular or localized lockdowns.

Meanwhile, Nograles said the IATF approved the conduct of contact sports in areas under Alert Level 2 subject to the approval of the local government unit where such games shall be held.

He said private establishments have the discretion to deny entry of customers who do not follow minimum public health standards such as wearing of face masks.