Gov't eyes relaxed quarantine status as COVID-19 cases decline

The Philippine government is considering reclassifying the community quarantine status of most areas in the country next week due to a downward trend in COVID-19 cases.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque noted that the number of infections, when recorded by the onset of symptoms, shows a decline, and the case doubling time appears to be lengthening.

Metro Manila's quarantine status will be closely evaluated due to its different health data compared to the national trend.

The Inter-agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases is expected to present its recommendations on quarantine status modifications to President Duterte this week.

The government aims to relax lockdown measures to allow more businesses to reopen and public transportation to resume operations at reduced capacity.

Previously, Metro Manila and several other areas were downgraded to General Community Quarantine (GCQ) until June 15, while the rest of the country was under Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ).

As of June 7, the Philippines had recorded 12,895 COVID-19 cases, with a majority originating from Metro Manila.

Roque urged the public to continue observing health protocols such as social distancing and wearing masks to prevent a potential spike in cases.