Metro Manila quarantine begins amid concerns over checkpoints, traffic

The Philippines has imposed a month-long community quarantine on Metro Manila to curb the rising number of coronavirus cases.

On the first day of the quarantine, concerns were raised about the lack of thermal scanners in checkpoints, inconsistent implementation of entry and exit guidelines, and significant traffic congestion.

At the border that Metro Manila shares with Rizal, some checkpoints for those bound for the capital region don't have handheld thermal scanners.

Several cities within Metro Manila, including Manila, Muntinlupa, and Makati, have imposed curfews from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m., while malls in Makati, San Juan, and other areas have announced temporary closures.

The Department of Foreign Affairs is facilitating the repatriation of 444 Filipino crewmembers and passengers from the cruise ship M/V Grand Princess, who are expected to arrive on Monday and be placed under quarantine.

The Bureau of Immigration has expanded travel restrictions for passengers coming from Iran and Italy, requiring them to present a medical certificate stating they are COVID-19 free.

The Department of Foreign Affairs' consular offices in Metro Manila will operate with a skeletal workforce to provide services only to individuals with urgent needs.