Malacaῆang has responded to critics of the decision of President Duterte to place Metro Manila under general community quarantine (GCQ) starting June.
“Data fully supports downgrade to GCQ: case doubling rate, capacity for critical care, and decrease in death rates,” Presidential Spokesperson Sec. Harry Roque pointed out in a text message.
Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo added that all measures of the government are for everyone’s good. “Sa madaling sabi, ginagawa po ito para masimulan na natin ‘yung pagbabalik ng ating ekonomiya, and at the same time, based on the study ng ating mga eksperto (In short, these are done to jumpstart the economy, and at the same time, based on the study of experts),” Panelo enlightened.
Meanwhile, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea said the President does not need to release a new executive order on protocols as the first omnibus guidelines released by the Palace will be followed.
The IATF-EID is set to have another meeting and the updates are expected to be delivered to the public by Sec. Roque. – Report from Mela Lesmoras
