Local government units (LGUs) in Metro Manila will have to pass ordinances that would restrict the movements of unvaccinated persons, Justice Secretary Menardo I. Guevarra said on Tuesday, Jan.4.
This was pointed out by Guevarra after Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Benhur Abalos announced that the Metro Manila Council passed last Jan. 2 a resolution that restricts the movement of unvaccinated persons.
“The LGUs comprising the Metro Manila Council must enact their respective ordinance further restricting the mobility of unvaccinated persons,” Guevarra explained.
He stressed that “the MMDA resolution by itself is not legally effective.”
Guevarra said: “Local legislative councils exercise police power delegated unto them by the Local Government Code which was enacted by the Congress. The delegated police power authorizes them to pass such ordinances as they shall deem to be for the welfare of their constituents.”
He stressed that it is for the courts to decide whether such ordinances are constitutional.
“Are these measures reasonably necessary and not unduly oppressive upon individuals? Are these repugnant to the constitution? This is a matter for the courts to determine,” he said.
“Unless judicially restrained, however, these public health measures may actually be executed and enforced,” he also said.