DOH urges continued health standards amid MECQ, GCQ shift

The Department of Health (DOH) is reminding the public to continue observing minimum health standards as parts of the country transition to modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) and general community quarantine (GCQ).

DOH Regional Director Cesar Cassion stressed that gradually loosening restrictions aims to prevent a second wave of COVID-19 infections.

Cassion urged everyone to fulfill their civic duty in protecting fellow Filipinos from the unseen enemy.

Key health standards include wearing facemasks when outside, frequent handwashing and sanitation, avoiding touching the face and surfaces, and maintaining safe distancing of at least one meter.

He also emphasized the importance of reconfigured workspaces, markers in public areas, staying home when symptomatic, and strict implementation of return-to-work protocols for private companies.

Cassion highlighted that collective cooperation is essential to win the fight against COVID-19 and avoid wasting previous sacrifices.

Provinces in Central Luzon, including Pampanga, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Zambales, Angeles City, Tarlac, Aurora, and Olongapo City, are under MECQ or GCQ until May 31.

Central Luzon has recorded 486 confirmed COVID-19 cases.

Director Cassion advised the public to accept and embrace the 'new normal' by being proactive in health and promoting healthier living for better outcomes and quality of life.