Stranded people in ECQ cannot return to their provincial home unless IATF protocols are met: PNP

May 12, 2020

People who were stranded due to the COVID-19 cannot return to  their homes in the province immediately  even if the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) is lifted PNP deputy chief for operations Lt.  Gen. Guillermo Eleazar appealed for understanding from citizens.

“The threat of coronavirus infection is still high and some of those who would go back to their homes may unknowingly bring to their hometowns the virus,” he said in a statement.

Eleazar issued the statement as many will be leaving areas such as Metro Manila, as it moves from transition from ECQ to general community quarantine.

Eleazar said people must first follow protocols by Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-MEID) before they can go back to their homes.

Under IATF guidelines, people must first secure a medical certificate from the health office of the local government units (LGUs) where they are stranded.

Local officials of person's hometown must issue a certificate they are willing to accept them.

“Once the two documents are complied, these will be processed by the concerned police commanders for the issuance of travel authority,” Eleazar said.

For those who were infected with COVID-19 but have recovered, Eleazar said they should test negative twice and  undergo necessary quarantine protocols.

“If they insist on returning without following the protocol that would be issued on this,  this will defeat the purpose of the quarantine measures that the government has implemented since March 17.” he said. DMS