Coronavirus: Philippines extends targeted lockdowns and reimposes curfews in Manila as cases surge
- Most of the new cases are in Metro Manila where officials have been quarantining compounds, streets, neighbourhoods and even hotels
- The country has been rolling out Covid-19 vaccines to health care workers and soldiers, after the government came under fire for delays
Targeted coronavirus lockdowns were expanded in the Philippine capital on Tuesday and nighttime curfews reintroduced in hotspots as authorities battle a resurgence in infections.
Most of the new cases are in Metro Manila where officials have been quarantining compounds, streets, neighbourhoods and even hotels in a bid to contain new clusters, while minimising the economic impact.
The mayor of Quezon City – one of 16 that make up the capital – announced Tuesday that 11 more communities would be locked down for two weeks. The move potentially affects tens of thousands of people.
Manila City also announced a four-day lockdown for two neighbourhoods and several hotels.
Officials and business leaders have warned against shutting down the entire country again as its economy struggles to recover from the first recession in three decades.