THE modified general community quarantine with heightened restrictions (MGCQ+HR) defined by Executive Order (EO) 17 of Governor Dennis Pineda has been extended until August 31, 2021 via EO 17-A.
As per the order, non-Pampanga residents are prevented from entering the province unless they present negative results of RT-PCR or antigen tests done 48 hours before they enter Pampanga.
Executive Order 17 mandates the return of border and barangay checkpoints in Pampanga in a bid to stem the spread of the coronavirus in Pampanga, particularly the Delta variant.
Pineda said the extension is due to an increase in the number of cases.
“Pampanga recorded the highest number of new Covid-19 cases this August 15. In just one day, 377 people were infected with the virus. From August 2-15 are nearly 4,000 cases. On the other hand, the number of beds in our private and government hospitals in the province is small. My fear is that we will imitate India,” Pineda said.
EO 17 imposed serious compliance with the minimum public health standards like the wearing of face mask and shield, distancing of one to two meters, frequent handwashing, rubbing alcohol on hands and cough etiquette.
With the extension all other previous provisions of the order remain like holding social gatherings in resorts, function halls and covered courts require written permits from mayors/IATF chairs and is limited to 30 percent of the venue capacity.
Residential gatherings are limited only to family members of the same households. Guests in swimming pools in resorts and hotels are required to take RT-PCR or antigen tests.
Wakes for non-Covid-19-related deaths are limited to two nights and three days at 50 percent capacity of venue. Mourners are covered by curfew.
Closed-door restaurants can serve up to 30 percent of venue capacity. Open-area restaurants can use 50 percent of the venue capacity.
“The virus is just outside our homes. Let's protect our family. Do not let guests in, even relatives and friends,” Pineda added.