Duterte extends ECQ in Metro Manila and other areas until May 15

President Rodrigo Duterte's decision to extend the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) in Metro Manila and some other high-risk areas until May 15 was a well-thought-out move for the safety of the people.

The extension aims to prevent the further spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Areas under ECQ include Metro Manila, Benguet, Pangasinan, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, Zambales, Batangas, Laguna, Cavite, Rizal, Quezon, Oriental Mindoro, Occidental Mindoro, Albay, Catanduanes, Davao del Norte, and Davao City.

Father Jerome Secillano views the ECQ extension as a calculated move and urges the government to prepare stimulus packages to support citizens during this extended period, ensuring they are provided with aid and wages.

If people are assured of aid and wages even without working, their burden would be less.