Former senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has urged the government to allow all vaccinated persons to spend time outdoors during the Enhanced Community Quarantine period, either to earn a living or for health reasons.
“As long as these vaccinated unauthorized persons outside of residence (UPOR) adhere strictly to minimum public health standards, I believe, somehow, they’re of big help in weathering the crisis caused by the coronavirus,” he said.
“Not being allowed to work during lockdowns is disadvantageous to workers, especially those who are on a no work, no pay basis, those who were laid off from their jobs or those who are forced to render shorter periods of work due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, because they would not have the means to pay for their families’ daily expenses,” he added.
He said the duration of the ECQ coincided with the period that parents needed to cough up tuition and other fees for their children’s enrollment.
“They need to work to recover their expenses. And because we are under ECQ, their expenses at home also go up – higher water and power bills. How can they manage if they are not allowed to work outside their homes?” Marcos said.
The former lawmaker, however, underscored that even vaccinated individuals should still strictly practice minimum public health standards such as wearing face masks, frequent handwashing and social distancing.
Marcos also exhorted the government to come up with ways to pump-prime the economy.