Today is the third day of Metro Manila community quarantine and the first day of the stepped up order to put Luzon under enhanced community quarantine or lockdown. While some people and ‘essential travel’ are still exempted from the general rule of staying at home, mass transport is suspended and most businesses are closed except for those who produce and sell basic necessities, BPOs and banks.
Divisoria, commercial hub of downtown Manila, is known for its jam-packed streets bustling with economic activity now becomes a virtual ghost town as establishments remain closed amidst the coronavirus outbreak.
Employees clean the storefront of an establishment in Divisoria.
Pedestrians walk along Nagtahan bridge. All forms of public transportation remain suspended while the ‘enhanced community quarantine’ is in effect.
Quiapo church remains closed as the ‘enhanced community quarantine’ takes effect.
Barangay officials check the temperature of bystanders along Recto avenue. People were advised to remain in their homes amidst the coronavirus outbreak
Employees from the nearby supermarket chain carry bags along Recto avenue. Groceries and banks are amongst the few establishments open during the lockdown.
A desolate Recto avenue
The homeless poor are amongst the most vulnerable as they have no means to purchase much needed protective gear such as face masks and sanitizers against the coronavirus. The government has still no clear plans regarding the needs of the homeless.
