THE Philippine National Police (PNP) is setting aside one lane at quarantine checkpoints to expedite passage of individuals authorized to go around Metro Manila during the lockdown until April 14.
Brigadier General Bernard Banac, PNP spokesperson, said health workers and those transporting food and other basic necessities may pass through this lane.
“Base sa mga observation ng first day nung Martes ay nagsagawa na nga ng adjustments itong ating interagency task force at ang pinakaimportante dito na pinapatupad natin ngayon sa mga checkpoints ay hihiwalay ng isang separate lane para po sa mga cargos, mga delivery trucks at hindi na po maantala ang paghatid, pagpasok ng mga gulay, mga agricultural products ano papasok ng kalakhang Maynila,” he said.
On Tuesday, a monstrous traffic jam was experienced on the roads leading to the checkpoints as police strictly implemented enhanced community quarantine measures in the entire Luzon.
Under an enhanced community quarantine, public transport systems are suspended, food and health services are regulated, and more uniformed men are deployed to impose the strict quarantine measures.
Only the health workers, those transporting food and residents of the area were allowed to pass through the checkpoints, creating confusion among those with jobs or official business in Metro Manila but living outside the capital region.
On Wednesday, the PNP issued a list of people authorized outside their homes and are allowed to pass through the checkpoints set up at the borders between cities or towns.