DOTr says public transportation still banned under extended ECQ

CALOOCAN CITY, April 24 (PIA) — Any mode of public transportation are still prohibited in areas under the extended enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) including Metro Manila, according to the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Friday extended the ECQ in the National Capital Region, Central Luzon, and CALABARZON to May 15. Several other provinces will likewise stay under ECQ but their quarantine status may change by April 30 depending on improvements on the number of COVID-19 cases.

The DOTr, in a statement, quoted Interior Secretary Eduardo Año, who on Friday, also said there is no possibility that public transportation will resume operations in Metro Manila, and other locations where the ECQ remains imposed.

“Wala. Dito sa ECQ wala, and we will be stricter in our ECQ,” Año said at a Malacanang press briefing, explaining that a stricter implementation will help slow down the transmission of COVID-19 and help authorities prepare healthcare facilities.

To recall, the suspension, declared by Duterte as early as March 17, included all forms of mass transportations such as public utility buses, jeeps, taxis, transport network vehicle services, among others.

Meanwhile, for areas under General Community Quarantine (GCQ), the DOTr said public transportation may operate at a reduced capacity in accordance with guidelines that will be imposed by the Department.

Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade earlier said authorities were looking into allowing the resumption of public transportation at 30% capacity.

“Definitely talagang dito sa GCQ kailangan ay magkaroon na tayo ng mga mass transport diyan. Alin at kung papano ang reconfiguration, antayin po natin sa DOTr,” Año added. (PIA NCR)

source https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1039966