Palace warns MECQ, GCQ areas may return to ECQ

Malacañang warns that areas under modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) or general community quarantine (GCQ) may revert to enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) if COVID-19 cases surge due to non-compliance with health protocols.

Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque stressed the need for public cooperation with health precautions like social distancing, as the shift to MECQ is temporary and flexible.

He stated that a resurgence in cases and overwhelmed critical care capacity could force a return to ECQ, which he described as the "weapon" against the virus while a vaccine or cure is unavailable.

Roque acknowledged that the government eased restrictions to revitalize the economy, but emphasized that this does not mean the threat has passed.

Reports of people disregarding social distancing in public places like malls after the shift to MECQ prompted the Palace's renewed appeal for vigilance.

The government's decision on quarantine classifications considers factors such as the case doubling rate and healthcare capacity.

Cebu City and Mandaue City have been placed under ECQ until the end of the month to control the spread of the virus.