Palace doubts MECQ extension due to lack of funds

Malacañang has stated that extending the modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) in Metro Manila and adjacent provinces is improbable due to a lack of funds for financial assistance.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque clarified that no final decision has been made by the Inter-agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) or President Rodrigo Duterte.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, however, believes the MECQ in Metro Manila should be extended for two more weeks to prevent healthcare facilities from being overwhelmed.

Gatchalian noted that hospital capacity in the NCR is already at almost 80% and extending the MECQ would allow for more breathing room, preventing it from reaching 100%.

He also stated that extending MECQ strikes the best balance, allowing workers to earn while limiting unnecessary movements.

The decision on the new quarantine status for Metro Manila and nearby areas is expected to be announced by President Duterte on August 17.

Metro Manila and surrounding provinces were placed under MECQ from August 4 to 18 following calls from the medical community due to the alarming rise of COVID-19 cases.