Reps propose granular lockdowns, 'bakuna' and business bubbles

Two House lawmakers have proposed a shift in COVID-19 pandemic response strategies, advocating for granular lockdowns coupled with "bakuna" and business bubbles to balance public health and economic reopening.

House Resolution No. 2209, filed by Representatives Stella Quimbo and Sharon Garin, urges the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) to consider these recalibrated measures.

The proposed granular lockdowns would be more effective if the Department of Health collaborates with local government units to provide aid to affected households and implements an effective referral system at the barangay level for rationalized hospital admissions.

The "bakuna" bubble aims to allow fully-vaccinated individuals greater mobility and opportunities to participate in businesses and activities that might otherwise be restricted.

Furthermore, a "business bubble" is suggested, allowing both essential and non-essential businesses to operate provided they employ fully-vaccinated individuals.

Employees within these "business bubbles" would also be required to undergo regular COVID-19 testing to ensure safety.