PH leads ASEAN in COVID-19 cases; total lockdown eyed

The Philippines has become the leading country in the ASEAN region for COVID-19 cases, prompting Malacañang to consider a total lockdown or a modified enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) due to public non-compliance with restrictions.

Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque expressed shame over the Philippines' number of cases, attributing it to the public's stubbornness and failure to adhere to quarantine rules.

Roque criticized Filipinos for still having traffic despite the ECQ and urged mothers to enforce quarantine measures within their homes to ensure compliance.

While a total lockdown has not been declared, Malacañang confirmed it is being considered if the public continues to defy quarantine guidelines and case numbers rise.

A modified ECQ is also being explored as a way to balance public health protection with the need for citizens to earn a living, as the curve has not yet been flattened.

The Inter-Agency Task Force and the Cabinet are discussing various options for the ECQ, including potential extensions or modifications based on geographic location, comorbidity, or specific industries.

Local government units (LGUs) have been warned that President Duterte will take action against mayors and barangay captains who are negligent in enforcing the ECQ, citing the number of people seen on the streets as proof of their failure.