The Daily Manila Shimbun

 

Duterte asks IATF for clear explanation on pros and cons of reducing physical distancing inside public transport

September 15, 2020



By Celerina Monte

President Rodrigo Duterte ordered on Monday night the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases to come up with a clearer presentation on the pros and cons of reducing the social distancing on board public transport from one meter to 0.75 meter.

Duterte made the directive after the members of the IATF, during a taped televised meeting on Monday night, seemed to be divided on the matter.

"Give me a sort of pointers," Duterte said, adding that he wants a "visual" presentation so that he can understand immediately.

The IATF is set to hold a meeting on Tuesday to discuss the matter. Duterte, however, will not be present.

The reduced distancing in public transport took effect Monday.

National Task Force Against COVID-19 Carlito Galvez Jr., who was present in the taped televised meeting, favored the reduction of the distance among the passengers in a public transport as the country reopens the economy.

"I believe it's risk management," he said, stressing that people inside a vehicle should wear mask and face shield, avoid using the cellphone, and prevent eating or drinking.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Ano, who was tested positive for coronavirus twice, warned that if the proper physical distancing is not followed, the country might again go back to strict enhanced community quarantine.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, during the meeting, discussed a study by health professionals that cutting the social distancing from one meter to 0.75 meter could result to higher cases of COVID-19 in the country. DMS