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Metro Manila shift to MGCQ possible – Roque

Julia Rigor
Sep 28, 2020
1 min read

USED TO BE. The number of vehicles that pass by have lessened ever since the start of quarantine. © Destura

A change in the critical care capacity of Metro Manila allows a remote possibility for a shift to modified general community quarantine (MGCQ), Palace spokesman Harry Roque Jr. said last Aug. 13.

Roque stated that the critical care capacity and the case doubling rate of the coronavirus disease in Metro Manila that is at nine days from at least the 28 days needed are factors for shifting to the quarantine classification of MGCQ.

“Ang aking prediction po huwag lang lumala ‘yung case doubling time, mag-improve pa sana ng kaunti baka mayroon pa possibility na MGCQ na dahil napakalaki na ng critical care capacity ng Metro Manila with additional 250 bed capacity,” Roque articulated in a virtual press briefing.

Later on, he revealed that he was only “speculating” saying, “Let me correct no. I am just speculating. It’s a decision of the IATF. Pero on the basis of critical care capacity if we proceed with the inauguration and use of 250 bed capacity, baka pupuwede.”

As of September 28, Metro Manila is still under general community quarantine (GCQ) following President Duterte’s announcement for the region to remain under this quarantine status until September 30.

MGCQ permits everyone to return to normal given that protocols like the wearing of face masks and face shields, and social distancing are observed.

Under MGCQ, schools are allowed to have limited face-to-face classes, granted they consult with local government officials and adhere to public minimum health standards.