Citizens of Philippines won’t be celebrating Easter in a normal way this year as the country’s leader has imposed a strict lockdown in the capital and nearby provinces, spoiling Easter plans for millions in the Catholic dominated country.
Over the weekend, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque announced the lockdown after the country reported 9,838 new Covid-19 cases — the country’s highest single day increase.
According to the Philippines News Agency, Philippines has reported more than 720,000 coronavirus cases, including 13,170 deaths, making it one of the worst affected countries in Asia.
Since February there has been a rise in daily reported cases and the country is now reporting more than 9,000 new cases a day.
More than 25 million people across Metro Manila and nearby provinces Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna and Rizal will be affected by the lockdown.
The lockdown begins Monday, March 29 and runs until April 4 — which is Easter Sunday, a day when Christians often celebrate with special church services.
The lockdown measures include a curfew from 6 p.m. until 5 a.m while gatherings of more than 10 people outside are not allowed, and non-household members cannot gather indoors, the government said.
Diners are not allowed to eat in restaurants, but delivery services can still go ahead.
According to a PNA report, the Philippine National Police has deployed thousands of officers in checkpoint areas to help enforce the rules.