Cops monitor tourist, leisure spots in NCR+

Gen. Guillermo Lorenzo Eleazar, chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), ordered yesterday all police units to closely monitor the reopening of tourist and leisure spots in the National Capital Region and four adjacent provinces as the national government started to reopen the economy anew by further easing the restrictions on coronavirus quarantine measures.

Eleazar issued the guidance to police commanders as people started visiting outdoor tourist attractions which were allowed to operate at 30% capacity over the weekend.

Some areas in Intramuros, such as the Fort Santiago and the Baluarte de San Diego, were expected to be opened to visitors yesterday.

Eleazar said that while he understands the excitement of most Filipinos over being able to finally go outdoors for leisure, people still need to take the necessary precautions against the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

But he reminded the public that unless specifically accredited or authorized by the Department of Tourism, for permitted leisure activities, they will not be allowed to cross the NCR Plus Bubble boarders.

Aside from Metro Manila, included in the NCR Plus Bubble are the provinces of Bulacan, Laguna, Cavite and Rizal. These areas have been placed under general community quarantine with heightened restrictions until the end of May.

“We ask our kababayan within the NCR Plus to restrict their travel within the Bubble. And for those outside the Bubble, please do not attempt to go inside if your travel is not essential,” said Eleazar.

He reminded police units to be on the lookout for violations of minimum public health safety protocols and to coordinate closely with local government units in securing tourist attractions and leisure spots.

Eleazar also reminded the management of businesses allowed to operate, including tourist spots and leisure areas, to strictly abide by the IATF guidelines on capacity rates and impose minimum health safety protocols on their patrons.