Police checkpoints, curfew hours to remain in areas under MECQ

COVID Shield Commander Police Lt. General Guillermo Eleazar on Wednesday said police checkpoints and the implementation of curfew hours will continue in areas under modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ).

Eleazar added that while the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) has relaxed limits on the movement of people in areas under MECQ, security measures will remain in place to prevent the so-called second wave of COVID-19.

He maintained that police checkpoints and the implementation of curfew hours will help the PNP monitor the movement of people under MECQ and avoid the spread of the coronavirus.

The PNP will allow people to cross borders provided they are considered authorized persons outside residence (APOR).

Eleazar explained that the quarantine pass cannot be used for crossing PNP checkpoints, but can be used only within each barangay under MECQ.

Health protocols of the Department of Health (DOH) such as wearing of facemasks and observation of social distancing should also be strictly observed in the MECQ areas.

Malacañang has placed Metro Manila, Cebu City and Laguna under modified enhanced community quarantine until May 31 as they are considered high-risk areas.