Palace tells enforcers to follow law on quarantine measures

Malacañang urged law enforcers and barangay officials to strictly adhere to the law when enforcing quarantine restrictions, warning of consequences for overreach.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque stressed that actions taken during the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) implementation must be lawful.

This statement followed the viral video of Quezon City authorities allegedly mauling and dragging a fish vendor for not wearing a face mask and lacking a quarantine pass.

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte assured that an impartial investigation is underway regarding the incident, promising appropriate punishment for any violations by barangay officials.

Roque also highlighted the need for law enforcers to exercise common sense at checkpoints, citing another incident where a delivery van with oxygen tanks was initially denied passage despite having necessary permits.

He emphasized that situations requiring medical attention should be prioritized and allowed to pass, advocating for the use of common sense in such cases.