Gen. Guillermo Lorenzo Eleazar, chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), ordered Metro Manila policemen to ensure strict implementation of longer curfew hours during the August 6-20 Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) in the National Capital Region.
From the 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. curfew, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Benhur Abalos said it will be from 8 p.m. to 4 a.m. starting August 6.
“The strict border control and the longer curfew hours are but some of the necessary interventions to prevent the spread of the Delta variant of COVID-19,” said Eleazar.
Eleazar said the imposition of longer curfew hours would help in preventing mass gatherings in the communities which include drinking sessions and holding of parties and other celebrations.
He then directed police personnel to coordinate with barangay officials in enforcing the curfew.
He added that PNP personnel will also help enforce the liquor ban that will be implemented by some local government units in Metro Manila.
Eleazar also urged the public to strictly follow minimum public health safety standards and quarantine protocols to prevent the spread of the more infectious Delta variant.
"We understand what they call quarantine burnout of the people but it is wrong to say that strict measures have no effect since health experts themselves recommended it and we in the PNP also witnessed how effective it is in preventing the spread of the virurs," said Eleazar.
Since last year, the PNP has been at the forefront of enforcing quarantine rules and are also tapped in strict lockdowns that include Metro Manila and Cebu City.
"We have seen the effects of the Delta variant in and we also learned from various news reports its effects in other countries. Immediate action of the government is really necessary before it is too late," said Eleazar.