Marikina mayor backs MECQ extension, wants economic easing

Marikina City Mayor Marcelino Teodoro supports the extension of the modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) in the Greater Manila area but advocates for the loosening of restrictions on certain economic activities.

Teodoro believes that extending the MECQ is necessary due to the high-risk healthcare utilization rate in Marikina, despite improvements in daily COVID-19 cases.

He stated that many people are currently experiencing hunger and job losses due to the strict lockdown measures.

The Marikina mayor proposed that more retail establishments and restaurants should be allowed to operate.

Teodoro also mentioned that many citizens are getting sick from non-COVID illnesses due to the hardships brought by the lockdown, emphasizing the need for a balance.

He urged cities to meet conditions that will allow the NCR to return to General Community Quarantine (GCQ) or the new normal, such as lowering hospital utilization rates and improving contact tracing and vaccine rollout.

The current MECQ is in effect in Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal until April 30.