PAMPANGA Governor Dennis "Delta" Pineda has issued on Saturday, May 15, 2021, Executive Order (EO) No. 11-2021, lifting EO No. 5-2021 due to the gradual drop of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) cases and hospital admissions in the province.

"Ngayon pa lang po natin nakikitang bumababa ang cases natin. Ngayon pa lang po natin nakikita na ang hospital beds, ang waiting list ay bumaba na," Pineda said.

Under the new EO, social gatherings are now allowed up to 50 percent of the total seating or venue capacity.

The EO retains the curfew hours from 10 p.m to 4 a.m. It also exempts workers and others who travel for medical and humanitarian purposes.

The new EO also lifts the liquor ban. However, it prohibits public consumption.

Dine-in restaurants, cafes, and other food establishments are also allowed to operate up to 50 percent of the venue capacity, provided that minimum public health standards are observed.

Meanwhile, entertainment venues such as karaoke bars, bars, clubs, concert halls, theaters and others are still not allowed to operate.

The new EO also directs persons aged below 15 and above 65 years old, and those with immunodeficiency, comorbidity and other health risks, and pregnant women to remain in their residences.

"We are just following the guidelines issued by the National Inter-Agency Task Force," Pineda stressed.

The governor urged the public to continue "to be cautious and submit to our protocols" for their safety.

He said the provincial government is doing its best to curb virus transmission. (PR)