The Metro Manila Council (MMC), composed of the 17 mayors in the National Capital Region (NCR) and other national government officials, have reached a consensus on the quarantine status in the region come May 15.

In a statement on Thursday, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairperson Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr. said the consensus was made after a meeting with representatives from the Department of Health (DOH) and the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) on Wednesday evening.

“After a thorough consideration of all factors presented such as hospitals’ capacity, the arrival of vaccines, decrease in the number of new Covid-19 (coronavirus disease) cases, and present economic conditions, the NCR mayors have come up with its recommendation as to the quarantine status come May 15,” Abalos said.

The decision, which the MMC has decided to remain confidential, will be presented as a recommendation to the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) in its meeting on Thursday.

“This same recommendation will be presented to the IATF at its meeting today, which in turn will be presented to President Rodrigo Duterte who has the final say on the matter,” Abalos said.

While the MMC has remained mum on the decision, he said it is “most beneficial to the residents of NCR” and puts “utmost importance” on a balance between the health and safety of the public and the economy.

On Wednesday, Makati City Mayor Abigail “Abby” Binay said NCR mayors have agreed to gradually relax quarantine restrictions in the region, noting that whatever quarantine status is decided, certain restrictions will remain such as a curfew, limited capacity in transportation and establishments, and compliance with other minimum health protocols.

Meanwhile, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said the quarantine classifications for the rest of May may be announced on Friday. (PNA)