Metro Manila on curfew starting March 15

The curfew will start on March 15 until April 14, matching with the efforts of the government to curb the spread of COVID-19 in the metropolis. (File Photo: Eugenio Pastoral/Unsplash)

The authorities of Metro Manila on Saturday have imposed a curfew on the National Capital Region (NCR) from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. starting tomorrow, March 15 in line with the duration of the community quarantine implemented to contain the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) General Manager Jojo Garcia said during a press conference that the Local Government Units (LGUs) have agreed to implement the curfew to help prevent the spread of the pandemic.

“Hindi naman po dadamputin ito. Pagsasabihan lang na nandito ang PNP (Philippine National Police) na umuwi na kayo kung hindi importante ang lakad ninyo (They will not be arrested. They will just be warned by the PNP and will be sent home if their appointments are not important),” Garcia said.

The curfew will start on March 15 until April 14, matching with the efforts of the government to curb the spread of COVID-19 in the metropolis.

However, there are exemptions with the curfew which include workers and other “essential” movements like buying food and medical supplies or emergencies.

Garcia also said that they are contemplating to recommend bars and other related entertainment establishments to close down during the 30-day quarantine in NCR.

Meanwhile, the mayors of Metro Manila and other national agencies urged malls and related establishments to be close for the time being.

San Juan Mayor Francis Zamora said during the press conference that they collectively agreed to the resolution approved by the Metro Manila Council on Saturday.

“The resolution orders temporary closure of malls and related establishment except offering essential services groceries, supermarkets, pharmacies, restaurants with home deliveries and bank services from March 14, until April 13,” read the resolution delivered by the San Juan Mayor.