16th March 2020
As Covid-19 continues to spread around the world, many contracting hotspots are taking action in order to prevent and mitigate the effects of the virus. Here is the latest information from the Philippines, as of 16th March 2020.
Philippines Quarantine
Due to the recent Covid19 Pandemic Outbreak, the Philippines currently is undertaking precautionary measures to limit and contain the virus. As a result, the President has placed the whole of Metro Manila under Community Quarantine, with other regions following suit.
Community Quarantine:
- A memorandum signed by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, by order of President Rodrigo Duterte, on Friday, March 13, and shared with media on Saturday, defines this as taking place on two levels.
- The first level is called a “general community quarantine.” This means that the movement of people is largely limited to “accessing basic necessities and work” while uniformed personnel and quarantine officers are present at border checkpoints.
- The second is an “enhanced community quarantine,” more akin to a total lockdown with hard borders.
- In this scenario, strict home quarantine for all households will be implemented, transportation will be suspended, provision for food and “essential health services” will be regulated, and there will be a heightened presence of uniformed personnel to enforce quarantine measures.
- The Community Quarantine will last for one month from March 15 (12am) to April 14, 2020. According to news, this may be shortened depending on the progress and effectiveness.
Here are the recommendations of the Government:
- Social distancing measures like school closures and prohibition of mass gatherings are in effect, but those who need to be outside their homes will not be impeded within the area of quarantine.
- Government officials have urged the public to go out of their homes only for essential tasks like going to work and getting basic necessities. This is to decrease the risk of spreading the disease, especially to those who are at higher risk of infections.
- Finally, there are the following flexible work arrangements for employees:
Reduction of work hours and/or workdays.
Rotation of workers (skeletal work).
Work from home for any employees who may take this option.
It is recommended by the department of labor to highly encourage people to explore alternative work arrangements to limit virus spread/exposure.
While this is the current situation regarding the Philippines, things are changing every day, and we encourage contractors and recruiters to pay attention to information from the relevant authorities before making any decisions. Should there be any interruption to your assignment or working life – 6CATS will be here to help.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or would like more information.