Philippine Capital Back in Lockdown Over Delta Fears

MANILA, PHILIPPINES - The Philippine capital, Manila, returned to coronavirus lockdown Friday as authorities sought to slow the spread of the hyper-contagious delta variant and ease pressure on hospitals while trying to avoid crushing economic activity.

Police checkpoints across the National Capital Region, where more than 13 million people live, caused long lines as officers in camouflage uniforms inspected vehicles to ensure only essential workers were on the road. Experts warned that an explosion in delta cases could overwhelm the health system if restrictions were not tightened in the crowded capital, which accounts for about a third of the country's economy. The stay-at-home order announced last week was expanded Thursday to include neighboring Laguna province. Restrictions were also tightened in other regions where coronavirus infections have spiked.