AFTER unanimously deciding against it earlier, the Metro Manila mayors have already agreed to place the National Capital Region (NCR) under modified general community quarantine (MGCQ), with nine of 17 mayors voting to ease restrictions, as sought by economic managers worried by the slow pace of recovery.
Although he did not reveal who voted for and against the shift to MGCQ at Wednesday night’s meeting of the Metro Manila Council, Chairman Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr. of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said all mayors will honor the almost split decision.
“Mahirap sa Metro Manila kung magkanya-kanya ang mga mayor [It would be difficult if Metro Manila mayors go their own way],” Abalos said in a media briefing on Thursday afternoon. When asked about the reasons cited by mayors who voted against it, Abalos cited one: funds.
Some of the mayors who voted against relaxed quarantine status, he said, have expressed fear that cases may rise if MGCQ will be implemented “and that they cannot afford another lockdown.”
He, however, stressed that the issue was discussed thoroughly, “and it was a fruitful discussion.”
The MGCQ, he said, will be implemented on March 1.
Abalos said the Metro Manila mayors support the reopening of the economy devastated by the Covid-19 pandemic’s lockdowns, but want the easing done “gradually.”
Likewise, Abalos said the mayors, who compose the Metro Manila Council, have one voice in the fight against Covid-19.
“If you open the economy, we also need to factor in safeguards. It is a big challenge for the government to help the economy going while keeping the people safe and healthy. The Metro Manila mayors play a big role in this issue,” said Abalos.
“What is important is we act as one. What is important is unity,” he stressed.
He reiterated that the mayors cannot allow the government’s gains in controlling the spread of the virus to be put to waste.
“We must balance the economy and health for everyone’s safety,” Abalos added.
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