13/03/2020
Some FAQs on the guidlines of the community quarantine scenario. Though this is UNOFFICIAL, it can give you a broad perspective on what can or will be implemented.
So we were able to interview Usec. Jonathan Malaya earlier on Umagang KayGanda. Here are some answers you might be looking for about the Metro Manila quarantine/lockdown that’s happening on March 15.
Q: I live outside Metro Manila. But I work there. Can I still go?
A: Yes, you can. Although you would need to show company IDs at the checkpoint. For those who do not have company IDs but have work in Metro Manila, gov’t is still discussing requirements.
Q: I live inside Metro Manila. But I have work outside. Can I still go?
A: Yes. Malaya says you just need to furnish a company ID as well. So yeah, access goes both ways.
Q: I live overseas and I have a trip to Manila within the lockdown period. Can I still go?
A: Yes, you can (barring other travel restrictions from your country of origin). But you can only go to Metro Manila. If you live outside (Rizal, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, etc.), you will not be allowed to exit Metro Manila. Alternative is to fly to Clark and other international airports in the country
Q: What about transport of goods?
A: Malaya says transport of goods should not be impeded. There’s a possibility of a special lane assigned for transport of goods (especially perishable items)
Q: What will happen at checkpoints?
A: Malaya says “theoretically”, private vehicles will be checked one by one to see if access in and out of Metro Manila will be allowed. Police will have to board buses one by one to check on passengers if they too will be allowed
Q: Where will the designated checkpoints be?
A: There’s going to be a meeting in Camp Crame today to discuss checkpoints. Malaya says gov’t understands that this will be a “logistical nightmare” but “drastic measures” needed to address WHO warning of potential 75,000 new cases in PH
Q: Will journalists based in Metro Manila be allowed access to cover outside in case of breaking news in other parts of the country?
A: No definite answer yet. Malaya says he will bring it up at the meeting
Q: I have plans to visit Metro Manila but it’s not work-related. Can I still go?
A: No. Malaya says non-essential travel will not be allowed as they are hoping to limit number of people moving in and out of the area
Q: Will there be enough time to inform people of the details of the community quarantine/lockdown that’s going to happen on March 15?
A: Malaya says yes and that there’s enough time
Basically, there's still a lot of things up in the air at this point. There's going to be many gov't meetings today so I'll try to post some other information as we get them.
Stay safe! Wash your hands properly and frequently.