Marikina City Rep. Stella Quimbo believes that additional movement restrictions in the country will have a negative impact on the country’s economy, however, “this is necessary to control the spread of COVID-19.”
It can be recalled that the Philippine government placed the entire National Capital Region in a plus “bubble” along with Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna and Rizal in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
In a text message to House reporters, Rep. Quimbo said the lockdown policy must be effective “in a way that does not only respond to public health demands but to economic needs as well.”
“The movement restrictions will only be effective in curbing the rise of infected cases if people actually do stay at home,” Quimbo emphasized.
To effectively implement a lockdown on affected families, she pushed for the passage of the Bayanihan 3 Bill, which is still pending with the Lower House.
This is to give those affected by the lockdown cash aid for their basic needs.
“Bayanihan 3 is key to the effectiveness of lockdown. Kailangan ang ayuda kapag bumabagal ang economic activity (There is a need for aid whenever economic activity slows down),” Quimbo underscored.
“Families under lockdown must be provided with cash aid to ensure that their basic needs will be met while under quarantine,” she added. -Daniel Manalastas
