IN PREPARATION for the easing of restrictions in business operations and the reclassification of quarantine categories of areas in Central Luzon and other parts of the country, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has revised the list of establishments allowed to operate during the modified general community quarantine (MGCQ).
In particular, some Category IV establishments, or establishments previously not allowed to operate during general community quarantine (GCQ) and enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) will now be allowed to operate in a partial capacity or full capacity.
Under DTI Memorandum Circular 20-33 dated June 8, 2020, among the Category IV establishments to be allowed to operate in MGCQ at 50 percent capacity are the following: Internet and computer shops for educational and work purposes, testing and tutorial centers, entertainment establishments (cinema, theater, karaoke bars, etc.).
Kids amusement center, water parks, beach resorts, travel agencies, tour operators, pet grooming services and other personal care services such as massage, sauna and spa services, waxing salons and facial care services are also given the go-signal.
However, these establishments must ensure the minimum health safety protocols such as social distancing measures, sanitation and regular disinfection of the work place and health monitoring of their employees and customers.
In the same memorandum, some Category III establishments that were previously allowed 50 percent capacity will now be allowed on full capacity (100 percent) during MGCQ.
These include establishments like restaurants (but on a 50 percent seating capacity), photography services, wholesale and retail of motorcycle and auto parts, bicycle trade, outdoor and indoor sports facilities for non-contact sports (50 percent only).
The measure also allows full capacity for mall-based government service kiosks, hardware stores, clothing and accessories, bookstores, office supply, pet shops, flower shops and jewelry stores, toy stores and art galleries (which are limited to selling).
Firearms and ammunition stores will also be allowed while barbershops and salons will be allowed 50-100 percent opening after three weeks of the MGCQ, as well as other non-essential construction projects.
For hotels and accommodation establishments, the DTI order states that only establishments accredited by the Department of Tourism will be allowed on a five percent capacity during MGCQ.
The said order supplements other IATF regulations and the DTI-DOLE Joint Administrative Order 2020-15 stating regulations on workplace health safety guidelines.