ECQ may be extended in some COVID-19 hotspots

Chief implementer of the National Action Plan against COVID-19, Carlito Galvez Jr., stated that the enhanced community quarantine may be extended in some areas affected by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

This potential extension aims to balance ensuring residents' health and safety with economic, social order, and human safety concerns.

Galvez assured the public that the government is mitigating the socio-economic impact of the disease, but stressed the need for full community cooperation.

Previously, Interior Secretary Eduardo Año advised against extending the enhanced community quarantine due to its adverse economic effects.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III also commented that it is too early to make a decision on extending the quarantine.

President Rodrigo Duterte had previously stated that the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine would last until April 14.