The National Capital Region, where 13 million people live, appears ready to switch from Alert Level 2 to the most relaxed Alert Level 1 to enable, shift proponents argue, the domestic economy to rebound.
But concerns remain as regards enforcement of public health protocols during the campaign season, which has seen fractures in the different regions, with supporters of candidates literally making an overactive throng as they catch a glimpse of their respective candidates for the May 2022 elections.
These frenzied throngs have been a daily sight since February 8 following the start of the campaign period for national elective officials. Next month, local officials will have their gears ready.
During the most relaxed Alert Level 1, intrazonal and interzonal travel shall be allowed without regard to age and comorbidities.
At the same time all establishments, persons or activities, are allowed to operate, work, or be undertaken at full on-site or venue/seating capacity provided it is consistent with minimum public health standards.
And provided, additionally, that face-to-face classes for basic education shall be subject to prior approval of the Office of the President.
We lean towards the persuasive declaration of some officials, like those from the Department of Interior and Local Government, due to the risks of another COVID-19 surge from frenetic campaign activities, like caravans in the different communities which invite not just hundreds but tens and scores of thousands in just a few hours.
We have also heard the Private Hospitals Association Philippines urge the government to delay for two more weeks and monitor the trend of COVID-19 cases before de-escalating the National Capital Region to Alert Level 1.
During the Laging Handa briefing, PHAPI president Jose de Grano said people might disregard the minimum health standards with the switch to the lowest alert level.
De Grano’s words echoed well: “On our part, our recommendation is, if possible, we wait for two more weeks. But if that is the decision of the IATF, we will follow.”
De Grano said the hospitals group was also wary of the possible surge in COVID-19 cases considering the election campaign period.
Given the culture of Filipinos during political campaigns—politics being a top Filipino pastime—we share the worries of the doctors and some local government officials that minimum health protocols may just be disregarded, prompting a surge in COVID cases.
But in the event the Inter-Agency Task Force, having reviewed all the parameters and convinced it should give the go-ahead, we ask that the people exercise the highest caution – not only for their own health but for the health of others in their respective communities.
The general public will accept nothing less.