By Joseph Almer Pedrajas
A total of 13 barangays in Quezon City have already been cordoned off by authorities following the extreme enhanced community quarantine measures imposed on them due to the rising number of cases of COVID-19 infection.
Barangays Tandang Sora, Kalusugan, Matandang Balara, Ramon Magsaysay, Maharlika, Tatalon, Batasan Hills, Pasong Tamo, Central, San Roque, Paligsahan, Bagong Lipunan ng Crame and South Triangle are being under tight watch of police and barangay officials.
Residents of these barangays are allowed only to go outside to buy their food and essential provisions and are subjected to identity verification and thermal scanning, according to police.
Authorities have imposed stricter measures on the said barangays, except Central, which has several designated COVID-19 hospitals, as these have already reported their confirmed cases.
Residents afflicted with COVID-19 continue to rise in Quezon City, with local government officials reporting 10 more cases on Wednesday, bringing the total number to 72.
Quezon City Police District (QCPD) Director Brig. Gen. Ronnie Montejo said that he has already directed at least 12 station commanders to ensure the strict implementation of strict community quarantine and social distancing measures in the said areas.
"We have already established checkpoints to strictly monitor the so-called hot zones and warm zones in these barangays," Montejo said in a statement.