Metro Manila Development Authority reported the sudden increase in number of people out and about amid the threat of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in the country.
After the transition from enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) to modified ECQ, more and more people flocked outside their homes, even going to crowded establishments such as malls.
“From ECQ na talagang less than 5 percent ‘yung lumabas, only essentials, ngayon sa estimates namin mga 30 to 40 percent ang lumabas,” MMDA General Manager Jojo Garcia said in an interview.
[From ECQ where less than 5 percent of people came out, only (for) essentials, now we estimate that about 30 to 40 percent more have come out.]
Employees who have to go back to work also faced a myriad of difficulties as public transport is still generally not permitted. Interzonal travel is also complicated as you have to pass through certain checkpoints for security and safety purposes.
The buildup of traffic is likely caused by the strict checkpoints.
“Now of course we need to check everyone if they’re an authorized person. Doon nagkakaroon ng problema, kasi nga ang daming sumabay,” Garcia said. “Majority pa rin ito ‘yung mga hindi authorized lumabas tapos sumasabay,” Garcia said.
[Now of course we need to check everyone if they are an authorized person. That’s where the problem starts, because so many people came out with them. Majority of these are not authorized to come out and just went with them.]
Individuals without necessary travel passes are not allowed to get through these checkpoints.
