Senator Imee Marcos urged on the government to develop a plan to address the surge of the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID) cases after the holidays, which could be brought about by the “quarantine fatigue”.

Despite the restrictions imposed for the fast-approaching Christmas season, the senator believes that a spike can still happen.

Recently, the government mandated the use of face shields outdoors, in addition to face masks. Right now, the use of “yantok” as well as a karaoke ban are also being considered to be enforced.

“Let’s already settle what contact-tracing system should be put in place, contingency measures in hospitals if critical levels are reached, coping mechanisms that can be devolved to local government units,” Marcos said.

“We are likely to remain in a public health emergency until next year, yet Bayanihan 2 is already due to expire when Congress adjourns next week,” she added.

Areas that posed a “significantly high” risk rate last November were Metro Manila, Batangas, Iloilo City, Bacolod City, Tacloban City, Iligan City, and Lanao del Sur.

As the country eyes for an economic revival, Marcos warned that the post-holiday COVID-19 spike can lead to stricter quarantine restrictions, slow down business, and make revenue generation a real challenge.