Metro Manila ECQ to run until Aug 20 amid Delta variant threat

Metro Manila was placed under the strictest enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) from August 6 to August 20, 2021, to prepare for a possible surge in COVID-19 cases due to the Delta variant.

An OCTA Research fellow estimates that the ECQ may control daily COVID-19 cases in the National Capital Region (NCR) to below 2,500, preventing hospitals from being overwhelmed.

During ECQ, only essential establishments like hospitals and groceries will remain fully operational, while others can operate with a skeletal workforce.

Public transportation will be suspended during ECQ, though limited use may be allowed.

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) estimates significant economic losses and jobs at risk for every week Metro Manila remains under the strictest quarantine classification.

The expert also believes there might be more cases of the Delta variant nationwide than reported due to limited genome sequencing resources.

Government officials stated that the ECQ in Metro Manila may be extended beyond August 20, depending on the COVID-19 situation and vaccination rollout.

Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles mentioned that authorities will monitor COVID-19 statistics and the vaccination rollout daily to determine the ECQ's duration.

Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire also told ANC that the length of the ECQ will depend on the numbers, with close monitoring to assess if an extension is needed after two weeks.