UP experts urge extending ECQ beyond May 15 for Metro Manila

UP experts are recommending an extension of the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) beyond May 15 for Metro Manila, Batangas, Cebu, Zamboanga del Sur, and Davao City to prevent a spike in COVID-19 cases.

Their study projects that without changes, Metro Manila could see around 14,000 cases with 1,000 deaths by June 15; however, extending the ECQ could reduce this to 12,000 cases and 800 deaths.

The researchers also suggest considering an extension for Albay, Bataan, Iloilo, Laguna, and Pampanga based on local health provisions.

Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque confirmed that the government’s data team shares the same view as UP professors regarding the potential consequences of lifting ECQ prematurely.