MMDA lifts number coding ahead of community quarantine

MANILA - The number coding scheme for vehicles in Metro Manila is suspended "until further notice," the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said Friday as the region braced for a community quarantine due to the coronavirus outbreak.

The community quarantine will shut land, air and sea travel to and from Metro Manila from March 15 to April 14, except for the delivery of food and essential supplies. Metro Manila workers who live in surrounding areas will also be allowed in, officials said.

As of Thursday evening, there are 52 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the Philippines. Five have died and 2 have recovered.

• DOH confirms deaths of 3 more COVID-19 patients

The health department has raised the highest Code Red Sub-level 2 because of “sustained community transmission.”

Earlier this week, the Philippines declared a state of public health emergency and suspended classes at all levels in Metro Manila in a bid to contain the virus.

The outbreak, which began in the Chinese city of Wuhan, has killed some 4,000 people and infected 110,000 others worldwide, prompting the World Health Organization to declare a global pandemic.