Sports and fitness enthusiasts can rejoice after running, cycling and other activities were given the green light by the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) on Emerging Infectious Diseases in places that are now under general community quarantine.

Running, cycling, golf, tennis, swimming and tennis have all been included in the list of activities allowed according to the IATF Resolution 38 that was passed on Friday and then publicized the following day.

However, people in Cebu City and Mandaue City will still have to wait a bit longer as these cities are still under enhanced community quarantine (ECQ). “Outdoor non-contact sports and other forms of exercise such as but not limited to walking, jogging, running, biking, golf, swimming, tennis, badminton, equestrian and skateboarding are allowed.

“Provided, that the minimum public health standards such as the wearing of masks and maintenance of social distancing protocols, and no sharing of equipment where applicable, are observed.

Provided, further, that operations of the relevant clubhouses or similar establishments, if any, shall be limited to basic operations,” read the resolution. Facilities that cater to the aforementioned sports may also now open but will still be restricted to basic operations.

The IATF had already permitted walking, jogging, and biking activities in areas that are already under modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ). Meanwhile, sporting events can resume in areas that will be placed under a modified GCQ (MGCQ).

These events will be allowed to push but only 50% of the venue’s capacity will be catered. (JNP)