Experts caution against lifting ECQ in Metro Manila citing peak COVID-19 infections

Experts are cautioning against the immediate lifting of the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) in Metro Manila, with indications that the region may have reached its peak in COVID-19 infections.

Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. warned that an abrupt lifting of the ECQ could lead to a resurgence of cases.

An adviser of the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) on COVID-19, Dr. Tony Leachon, recommends extending the ECQ in Metro Manila from May 1 to 15 to increase healthcare capacity, testing centers, procure more test kits, and improve hospital facilities.

Dr. Leachon stated that 80% of the country's COVID-19 cases are in the National Capital Region, making it the epicenter.

He also suggested a modified ECQ for other areas in Luzon, including CALABARZON, Pampanga, and Bulacan, which are experiencing increasing rates of infection.

Leachon warned that lifting restrictions too soon could lead to a resurgence in cases, citing examples from Singapore and Japan.

Senate President Vicente Sotto III expects President Duterte to extend the ECQ in Metro Manila and other heavily affected areas, but modify it for regions with less or no COVID-19 transmission.

Extending the lockdown in largely affected areas like Metro Manila while easing it in others with fewer cases is seen as a reasonable compromise, provided ports remain open and food can move freely.

President Duterte is reportedly set to announce his decision on the ECQ on Thursday, April 23, and the announcement should be made with lead time for ground preparations.