ECQ vs. modified ECQ: what's the difference?

MANILA, Philippines – Malacañang Palace will put Metro Manila, Laguna and Cebu City under a modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) from May 16 to 31.

Here's the difference between ECQ and modified ECQ based on omnibus guidelines released by the government:

ECQ:

• no movement regardless of age and health status
• minimal economic activity except for utility services such as food, power and water and the critical economic sector
• no transportation activity except for utility services
• suspension of physical classes

modified ECQ:

• limited movement within containment zone for obtaining essential services and work
• operation of selected manufacturing and processing plants up to maximum of 50% workforce
• limited transporting services for essential goods and services
• suspension of physical classes

Meanwhile, moderate-risk areas will be downgraded to general community quarantine (GCQ) and low-risk areas neither GCQ nor ECQ.

As of Monday, the Philippines has reported 292 new cases bringing the total COVID-19 cases to 11,086. This includes 1,999 recoveries and 726 fatalities.

Of the new cases, 162 or 56 percent are from the National Capital Region, 74 or 25 percent are from Region 7 or Central Visayas, and the rest are from other regions.

— The Summit Express