Some nations starting restrictions only now

Eight months ago, on March 16, the Philip-pines began its program of lockdown restrictions, with Metro Manila and all of Luzon placed under an Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) which closed down all businesses and offices along with all public transportation.

People, with the exception of hospital and other health personnel along with police and other law enforcement teams, were told to stay home. Everyone was told to wear face masks in public, maintain social distancing of at least one meter from another person, and regularly and vigorously wash their hands. There were some violations but the restrictions were generally accepted.

In the next eight months, the restrictions were gradually lifted, so that today most business and offices have reopened, public transportation is operating again. The school year began in August after a two-month delay, but only with online and radio-television classes, no face-to-face meetings.