The Filipinos’ penchant for celebrating the holidays worries government agencies, particularly the Department of Health and the Philippine National Police.
In a video message to reporters yesterday, Philippine National Police chief, Gen. Guillermo Eleazar, reminded the public to limit gatherings within the “family bubble”.
Disregarding the health protocols and going for trick or treat on October 31, he said, may end up with a trip and treatment to the hospital.
The PNP chief also warned business establishments to follow the protocols or face the consequence of being shut down. General Eleazar reiterated that it is not, yet, time to be complacent.
We can all agree that the COVID-19 pandemic is far from over, and the percentage of population that has been vaccinated is still below the target for herd immunity. That is why we need somebody from the government to explain the reasons behind the easing of restrictions in Metro Manila that prompted hundreds of people to gather at the Dolomite Beach.
If we are to follow the protocols of social distancing and restrictions on mass gatherings, then how are we to call the celebratory mood at the Dolomite Beach? If churches and places of worship shall remain to observe the 30 to 50 percent capacity, then how about the public markets and the jeepneys?
Metro Manila is under Alert Level 3 until October 31 and, based on the NIATF guidelines, only 30-percent indoor capacity is allowed for those who are fully vaccinated and 50 percent outdoor capacity regardless of vaccination status.
Negros Occidental is under the General Community Quarantine until the end of the month, and negative RT-PCR is still required for the unvaccinated inter-zonal travelers.
On paper, all government agencies commit to observe uniform protocols, but uniformity is lost in the midst of complacency and confusion. – NND
