PNP to strictly enforce ECQ amid rise in traffic, violations

The Philippine National Police (PNP) will strictly enforce the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) across the country following a rise in private vehicle traffic and violations of home quarantine guidelines.

PNP chief Lt. Gen. Archie Gamboa has ordered subordinates to tighten the implementation of the Luzon lockdown to prevent the further spread of COVID-19, expanding operations nationwide.

Lt. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar, Joint Task Force (JTF) Covid Shield commander, announced that police commanders in provinces are directed to check on all private vehicles for possible violations of home quarantine.

The Highway Patrol Group will establish checkpoints on major roads to verify if occupants of private vehicles are authorized to travel, as only individuals providing essential services are permitted.

Eleazar noted that the policy allowing one member per household to travel for essential needs is being abused, with some using it as an excuse for non-essential travel.

Drivers of private vehicles found with unauthorized persons outside residence (UPOR) or on non-essential travels may be issued temporary operator's permits (TOP) or ordinance violation receipts (OVR).