Metro Manila mayors agree on shortened curfew hours

(FILE) LONG NIGHT Policemen apprehended 1,499 residents and fined 1,588 others in Metro Manila, including the 27 adults and 11 minors seen here at a covered court in Binondo, Manila, for staying out on Monday night in violation of the 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew. —LYN RILLON

MANILA, Philippines — Metro Manila mayors have agreed to shorten curfew hours to 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. after April 30, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Benhur Abalos said Wednesday.

Curfew hours over the metropolis are currently being enforced from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. under the implementation of the modified enhanced community quarantine, which is in effect until April 30.

“They have also decided to shorten the curfew hours from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. As far as curfew is concerned, it is within the power of local government units but they opted to have unified curfew or curfew guidelines in the National Capital Region,” Abalos told INQUIRER.net in a phone interview.

Metro Manila mayors have also recommended a “flexible” modified enhanced community quarantine classification over the metropolis, meaning more economic activities will be allowed but strict border control and health protocols will still be in place.

In a separate interview, Abalos said shortening curfew hours will give a “breathing spell” for businesses in Metro Manila, adding more time for malls and other establishments to operate.

President Rodrigo Duterte is expected to announce quarantine classifications for May during his public address on Wednesday night.

/MUF