The Department of Transportation would like to clarify recent news reports on the alleged "ban" of highly vulnerable persons in our mass transport systems once the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) is lifted, and a General Community Quarantine (GCQ) is enforced.
First, allow us to emphasize that these highly vulnerable persons, such as: those who are below 21 years old; those who are 60 years old and above; those who are pregnant; and, those who have immunodeficiency, comorbidities, and other health risks, were given due consideration and special attention by the Inter Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Disease (IATF-EID) because they remain to be the ones at greatest risk, and that their health, protection and well being are primordial concern and utmost priority of our government.
It is for this very same reason which precipitated their inclusion in the guidelines for the resumption of mass transport under a GCQ setting.
It should be pointed out, however, that while the general guidelines identify them as the most vulnerable, it also behoves the IATF-EID and the implementing agencies like the DOTr to consider exceptions, and these are explicitly stated in the same guidelines, to wit, "Except when INDISPENSIBLE under the circumstances FOR OBTAINING ESSENTIAL GOODS and SERVICES, or FOR WORK IN PERMITTED INDUSTRIES and OFFICES."
The HEALTH and SAFETY of our citizens is PARAMOUNT, and public interest dictates that government exhaust all efforts to uphold this protective stance, especially for those who are most susceptible and vulnerable to COVID-19.
Under the current environment, the DOTr defers to the expert and careful recommendation of the IATF in the implementation of policy guidelines and measures intended to protect our people.
The DOTr remains fully emphatic and sensitive to public interest, and we assure everyone that we will exercise utmost discretion, empowerment and latitude in the determination of exceptions as may be warranted or necessary.
We also reiterate that even under or during normal situations, we have consistently championed, advocated and upheld the special needs of the highly vulnerable sector, in all of our mass transport facilities and services.
We thank you for your patience and understanding, as we look forward to a cooperative endeavor in our transition from ECQ to GCQ.
Together, let us heal as one.
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