Govt task force orders unhampered cargo movement at checkpoints

The government task force has directed the police to ensure the unhampered movement of all forms of cargoes at quarantine checkpoints in Luzon.

This directive was issued after reports of trucks having difficulty delivering agricultural products to Metro Manila and other areas due to traffic congestion at checkpoints.

Philippine National Police chief Gen. Archie Gamboa had previously ordered policemen manning checkpoints to ensure the unhampered travel of food supply trucks to Metro Manila and other areas amid the enhanced community quarantine.

Drivers of vehicles carrying food and other basic necessities will face minimal checking and questioning to prevent shortages, though basic COVID-19 symptom checks and cargo inspections are still mandated.

Separate lanes will be established for cargo trucks delivering food and agricultural products to avoid delays and prevent these essential deliveries from getting stuck in traffic caused by private vehicle screening.

Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles stated that the Philippine National Police is instructed to allow the unimpeded movement of all types of cargo subject to inspection for protocol observation.

Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez affirmed that cargo trucks must be allowed to cross borders even from lockdown areas, emphasizing that cargo transport should not be stopped, though random inspections may still be conducted.