Travel in and out of NCR, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, Rizal suspended starting March 22

The Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases is implementing new restrictions to curb the continued surge in COVID-19 cases in the country.

According to the resolution from the IATF, as approved by President Rodrigo Duterte, dated Saturday, March 20, the National Capital Region, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal will be under the General Community Quarantine status from March 22 to April 4.

Metro Manila was already under the GCQ status before the announcement. The four other areas were under modified GCQ prior to the new IATF resolution.

Only essential travel into and out of these areas is allowed. Public transportation will remain operational, under guidelines set by the Department of Transportation.

Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said in a briefing today that travelers can not board planes for the period if they can not prove the trip is essential. “Tourism is not essential travel,” Roque said.

The following restrictions are also in place for these areas:

• Individuals below 18 years old and over 65 years old, as well as pregnant women and those with immunodeficiencies should stay at home.
• The curfew of 10 PM to 5 PM remains in Metro Manila and will extend to Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, Rizal. However, workers, cargo vehicles, and mass transportation are exempted from the curfew.
• Weddings, funeral services, and baptisms are allowed but are limited to only 10 persons.
• Food establishments are limited to delivery. Take-out and outdoor dining are allowed given additional safety measures—such as the use of dividers—are put into place.
• Driving schools, cinemas, museums, and game arcades, libraries, and cultural centers are temporarily suspended.
• All mass gatherings are prohibited. Face-to-face meetings are discouraged.
• Visiting persons outside of immediate families are discouraged.
• Wearing of face masks at home is strongly advised.