PNP to randomly inspect hotels for quarantine violators

The Philippine National Police (PNP) will conduct random, unannounced visits to hotels and business establishments in areas under Alert Level 3 to check compliance with public health protocols.

This initiative follows reports of an "absentee quarantine modus" and Interior Secretary Eduardo Año's directive for the PNP to ensure individuals are actually staying in designated quarantine facilities.

The measure was prompted by an incident where Gwyneth Anne Chua, a returning Filipino traveler from the US, allegedly skipped quarantine to attend a party and dine at restaurants in Poblacion, Makati.

Chua later tested positive for COVID-19 on December 27, 2021, leading to at least 11 close contacts also contracting the virus.

PNP Chief Police General Dionardo Carlos stated that police visibility aims to monitor how quarantine hotels accommodate guests who are required to isolate.

Those found absent from facilities will be charged along with hotel management and staff, and the PNP will verify presence by obtaining lists from the DOH-Bureau of Quarantine and conducting physical inspections.

The PNP will also assist metro Manila local government units in enforcing capacity restrictions in establishments under Alert Level 3.