DAVAO CITY, Philippines – Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio took the issue of motorists driving past the curfew hours under the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) as she warned them that the city government will not shoulder their hospitalization if they get infected from coronavirus (Covid-19).
The mayor made this warning Tuesday evening in a local radio program after learning some private vehicles are still going around the city past curfew hours of 6 pm to 6 am.
Duterte-Carpio stressed that the local government will not assist violators of the ECQ protocol if they are admitted to the government’s Southern Philippines Medical Center for treatment of Covid-19.
“If you have acquired Covid due to your recent activities that violate the ECQ, the city will not give assistance. You prepare your money because we will not pay for you,” the mayor said.
Local authorities noted that a score of private cars has been going around the city since Monday like regular days, and sometimes causing traffic congestion.
Duterte-Carpio cannot accept their reason they need to go out to buy food as she points out these car owners have the capacity to buy enough food stock for weeks.
“Since they can afford to buy gasoline for their vehicle, they should also prepare for the payment of their hospital bills and cremation,” she added.
She also said there is no reason to roam around the city at night as all establishments are closed as part of the guidelines of the ECQ.
The mayor identified these vehicles as Fortuner and Montero, high-end vehicles produced by Toyota and Mitsubishi respectively.
The mayor said she will request the Task Force Davao to put their battle tanks and heavy equipment in the streets to prevent private vehicles from traversing.
On Wednesday, the Task Force Davao did place an excavator and later a tank along Quimpo Boulevard, blocking one side of the highway.(davaotoday.com)
