Duterte approves nationwide Alert Level System for COVID-19 restrictions

President Rodrigo Duterte has approved the nationwide implementation of the Alert Level System for determining COVID-19 restrictions through Executive Order 151.

This system aims to allow economic recovery by opening more sectors while still prioritizing public health through strict protocols and granular lockdowns.

The nationwide rollout will be undertaken in four phases, with the first phase covering pilot areas like Metro Manila, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Northern Mindanao, and Davao Region.

Ilocos Region, Eastern Visayas, and Soccsksargen fall under Phase 2, while Cagayan Valley, Bicol Region, and Zamboanga Peninsula are under Phase 3.

The fourth phase includes Cordillera Administration Region, Mimaropa, Caraga, and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

The transition to Phase 2 may begin at any time after the order's effectivity, but no later than the end of November 2021, with succeeding phases commencing weekly thereafter.