CNN Philippines’ Stringer Wilmark Amazona contributed to this report.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 24) — The modified general community quarantine in Eastern Samar will be extended until May 30 following a consultative meeting among local officials, its provincial government said Friday.
With the new measure, Eastern Samar residents arriving from Metro Manila and other COVID-19 infected areas will be placed under quarantine in their respective municipalities for two weeks to slow spread the virus, according to Governor Ben Evardone.
Meanwhile, select establishments will remain closed, while those allowed to operate should limit the number of their personnel, and mandate social distancing and wearing of face masks. Restaurants and fast food chains were also prompted to continue its services only through take-out or delivery.
The provincial government said the no-sail policy will still be in place within the coastlines, except in those provided under the Inter-Agency Task Force. The crew should observe social distancing and proper health protocols, it noted.
It added that mass gatherings will remain prohibited throughout the province.
Eastern Samar is one of the three provinces in Region 8 that is so far COVID-19 free. The two other areas cleared of the viral disease are Biliran and Southern Leyte.
Eastern Samar was first placed under general community quarantine on March 22 to April 12. The provincial governor later extended the lockdown until April 30.
On Friday, the Philippine government moved to extend the enhanced community quarantine in Metro Manila, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, and other high-risk provinces in the most populous island until May 15.
