Instead of requesting for an extension of the Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ) classification, Iloilo City Government now wants a lower General Community Quarantine (GCQ) status from June 16 to 30.
Mayor Jerry P. Treñas made this change of heart on Monday, June 14 after meeting with Iloilo City COVID-19 Team and the business community. Noting that the “pandemic did not just affect the health of the Ilonggos but also our economy”, Trenas said that he will write the National Inter-Agency Task Force to downgrade the quarantine classification of the metropolis.
“Today, we presented our current situation and discussed the decisions of the COVID Team to our business sectors so we can listen to their proposals. We will write a letter to the National IATF to place the city under GCQ and allow establishments to open at a certain capacity,” Treñas said in a Facebook post.
“I have heard the cry of our small business owners, and I understand that people are starving, so despite our increasing cases, we will open establishments but continue to be strict with the compliance of the protocols. Non-compliance will be subject for closure,” he added.
Treñas said that non-essential businesses will be allowed to open and dining in restaurants will be permitted on a 30% capacity. The city will also do away with Quarantine Pass, but public consumption of liquor will still be prohibited.
The local chief executive is hoping that everyone will comply with the protocols while under GCQ as the city and the region are still tagged as COVID-19 ‘high-risk’ area by the Department of Health.
“Our hospitals, quarantine facilities, frontliners, and resources are overwhelmed. We are hoping that everyone will comply with the policies for the safety of all,” Treñas said.
