Iloilo City implements ECQ due to PUI death, delayed test results

Iloilo City was placed under enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) on March 20, 2020, through Executive Order (EO) 55-2020, ordered by Mayor Jerry Treñas.

Mayor Treñas described the ECQ as a "lockdown" and stated, "These are extraordinary times; we are at war with something we cannot see. We have to meet this challenge with extraordinary measures as well."

This decision was prompted by the death of a 57-year-old person under investigation (PUI) at an Iloilo City hospital, who had exhibited influenza-like symptoms.

The PUI's test results for COVID-19 were delayed due to air traffic gridlock caused by the National Capital Region's lockdown.

Despite the Department of Health in Western Visayas reporting no confirmed cases in Iloilo City, Mayor Treñas implemented the ECQ as a preventive measure.

The strict quarantine mandates the closure of most offices and businesses, with exceptions for essential services, and a curfew from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. is observed except for emergencies or purchasing necessities.

Markets will remain open, but "market days" will be suspended to reduce reasons for people to go out simultaneously.