Health

Manila, adjoining provinces under stricter lockdown as virus cases surge

Metro Manila, Aug 4 (EFE/EPA).- Philippines on Tuesday reimposed a stricter lockdown in the capital Manila and its adjoining provinces following an appeal by the medical community for more effective measures to curb transmission rates amid an increase in coronavirus infections which have already surpassed 100,000.The new lockdown which comes into force Tuesday will completely restrict the movement of people, public transport has been suspended and only one family member can go out to buy essential items. Hairdressers, restaurants and other stores that had reopened in June will close again. The fresh measures in the capital, where 67 percent of the country's industrial activity is located, could have a detrimental economic impact at a time when the country is already suffering from heavy losses. The Philippines is expected to go into recession for the first time since 1998 with 10 million people losing jobs by the end of the year. (Camera: ROLEX DELA PENA). SHOT LIST: AUTHORITIES INSPECT VEHICLES AND PHILIPPINE CITIZENS PASSING A QUARANTINE CHECKPOINT AT PROVINCIAL BORDERS OF RIZAL PROVINCE, PASIG CITY AND MARIKINA CITY, METRO MANILA, PHILIPPINES .