Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is rumored to be announcing the lockdown revocation of Manila that has been implemented to stem the spread of the coronavirus outbreak (COVID-19) for almost the last three months.
The Philipines’ lockdown is one of the most stringent and longest in force in Southeast Asia. This step has had a significant adverse effect on the country’s economy. Many employees lost their jobs due to the pandemic conditions. In addition, poor people also suffer greatly because they do not have jobs anymore.
Lockdown Revocation of Manila
The lockdown revocation plan has received criticism from many parties because the corona case in this country is still high. Quoted from World O Meter, the total number of COVID-19 cases in the Philippines now (28/05/2020) reaches 15,588 with 921 deaths. Meanwhile, 3,598 patients have been cured.
Therefore, experts warn that the decision to lift the lockdown is a risky thing. The plan may not make cases of infection go down.
However, the task force overseeing efforts to slow the spread of the virus has recommended to Duterte to reduce the level of restrictions on Metro Manila since March 16 to quarantine the general public. However, high-risk districts which they consider to be critical zones will remain under total lockdown.
Lockdown in Manila
The government has effectively closed Metro Manila from all over the Philippines and the world since March 16, 2020. At the time of the lockdown, the government also closed various companies. Thus, there are lots of companies that laid off their employees. This applies in all sectors except for important sectors such as food and medicine, utilities, banks, telecommunications companies, and logistics companies.
Additionally, the government suspends public transportation, all domestic flights, and sea trips. Besides, they also establish various checkpoints to ensure that everyone stays at home.
Read more: Philippines: Duterte May Restart Economy after Lockdown
