02 Hulyo 2021, Biyernes

In the news...

Govt eyes Indon travel ban amid variant

"We are in a state of public health emergency….we don't want to be like India, Indonesia, where there are increasing COVID-19 cases, predominantly  Delta variant," Health Secretary Francisco Duque lll stressed the need for stricter border control and quarantine protocols.

The government is eyeing  ban on  entry of travelers from Indonesia amid threats of COVID 19 Delta variant.

"This is being studied by our technical advisory group of experts… I understand that there are already many countries Delta variant has invaded," Duque said.

The existing ban on travelers from United Arab Emirates, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Oman, Nepal and Bangladesh has been extended to July 15 due to concerns about Delta variant.

Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Benhur Abalos believes Metro Manila is "ready" for downgrade of current general community quarantine (GCQ) but thorough preparation is needed because of Delta variant.

Abalos said region's local chief executives are ready but discussions should first be held.

"We are ready…but Metro Manila mayors would first discuss preparations for  modified community quarantine (GCQ] because of course, there is the Delta variant," Abalos said in  Laging Handa briefing.

The MMDA chairman also said national government and LGUs are "successful" in declaring appropriate quarantine status.

He underscored downward trend of COVID-19 cases in the region, and lauded government's ability to calibrate and balance health and economy in their decision-making.

Abalos also said they would defer decision to place areas under any community quarantine to health experts and Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases. The government earlier placed region under GCQ until July 15.

Abalos also noted that while restrictions are "loosening," people should still continue to be responsible and follow minimum health protocols.

As of yesterday, the country recorded 5,795 more COVID-19 cases, bringing the total to 1,418,337. It has a total of 1,341,973 recoveries and 24,797 deaths, with 51,567 active COVID-19 cases.

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