The Philippine National Police (PNP) is ready for Metro Manila’s shift from modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) to general community quarantine (GCQ) on Monday, Joint Task Force COVID Shield Commander Police Lieutenant General Guillermo Eleazar said.

“Handa na po tayo (We are ready),” Eleazar said.

Eleazar said it would be more challenging for the PNP with more people allowed out of the residences and more vehicles expected on the roads starting Monday.

Trains and bus augmentation, taxis, TNVS (transport network vehicle service), shuttle services, point-to-point buses, bicycles, tricycles, will be allowed on the roads starting June 1. However, public utility buses, UV Express units and jeepneys are not included in the transportation modes allowed for the first phase of the resumption of public transportation from June 1 to 21.

“From the point of view of law enforcement, talagang malaking hamon ‘yan (it’s a big challenge),” Eleazar said.

Eleazar said PNP personnel will still conduct random checking among motorists to check if they are authorized persons outside residence (APOR) or are workers in industries allowed to operate under GCQ.

He said motorists will have to show their rapid pass or company ID to show they are allowed to work under GCQ.

Eleazar said the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) has prepared for the influx of passengers at the Metro Rail Transit Line 3, which will limit the number of passengers.

Eleazar told the public to get essential goods and services within their locality since supermarkets, drug stores and other establishments are located there.

“Hindi na dapat mag-cross ng border (they should not cross borders). Quarantine pa rin tayo (We’re still on quarantine)… Avail them within your locality,” he said.

Eleazar said those aged 21-59 years old are allowed to enter malls.

However, malls will control the entry of shoppers, allowing only a maximum number of shoppers based on their floor area.

He also reiterated that those intending to travel outside of Metro Manila and who are not APOR will have to get a travel authority from authorities as well as medical clearance and medical certificate.

Metro Manila Council chairman and Parañaque City Mayor Edwin Olivarez said local government units are ready for GCQ.

Olivarez reminded the public to observe social distancing and wear face masks.

If shopping malls are found not to follow guidelines as to social distancing and other health protocols, the LGUs have been given the authority to order their closure, Olivarez said./Stacy Ang