WITH the gradual easing of the quarantine restrictions in Davao City, a business leader is confident that the local economy will get back on its feet soon.
Davao City was finally put under modified general community quarantine (MGCQ) effective July 1 to 15, 2020.
Based on the guidelines from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the majority of the businesses are allowed to operate at 100 percent capacity.
Those establishments that were restricted to operate during the general community quarantine (GCQ) will be able to go back at 50 percent capacity, depending on the type of business, all following the strict protocol and with safety measures in place.
In Davao City, these businesses include restaurants, other food establishments, salons and barbershops, Pisonet and internet cafes, fitness gyms, and all other establishments, among others.
Bars, karaoke, and other entertainment venues were now also allowed to take customers at 25 percent capacity.
Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (DCCCII) President John Carlo B. Tria said the declaration of the MGCQ will have a positive impact on the economy.
“What can we expect in our local economic growth? Maybe a surprise in performance for 2020,” he said.
“We cannot deny that eased restrictions in a larger number of jurisdictions will result in faster business and economic recovery, higher confidence though we still prescribe maintaining a workplace and related protocols to reduce, if not remove the possibility of infections in the workplace. Vigilance is still necessary,” he added.
He also lauded the efforts of the City Government of Davao and the other government agencies in keeping the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) infection at a slow rate which contributed to the easing of the movement restrictions.
“The number of active cases in Davao City is low and the recovery rate is at 70 percent. That is a good reflection on local government and other agencies on its capabilities to manage the pandemic,” he said.
“Mindanao is the first island group to enter MGCQ. In addition, Davao and Zamboanga City’s entry into MGCQ is significant since these are large cities with significant economic activity,” he added.