AS THE Roxas Night Market is set to resume operation on September 12, local security officials reminded the public that existing security measures for the area will still be implemented in addition to new policies that will be enforced amid the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.
Davao City Police Office (DCPO) Director Kirby John Kraft said in a radio interview via 87.5 FM Davao City Disaster Radio on Wednesday, September 9, that market-goers are required to remove their face mask and face shield for about three to five seconds for facial recognition upon entering.
Kraft also said existing security measures such as bringing of valid ID, and the "no backpack, no jacket" policy will still be implemented.
Baggage items will still be inspected, but the police official said they will implement a "no touch" policy.
With the Night Market also being treated as a "maximum security zone," items or containers, including garbage bins, must be transparent.
Kraft added that a separate inspection cubicle for women, which will be attended by female security personnel, will be also placed.
He said this is on top of the minimum health protocols such as wearing of face mask and face shield, and the observation of physical distancing.
Kraft added that upon entering, market-goers are required to disinfect at the handwashing stations. Foot baths will also be placed.
The night market will resume its operation on Saturday, September 12, after six months since it was suspended due to the quarantine measures imposed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio said in a recent interview that she hopes the night market will not be the cause of a surge of Covid-19 cases in the city.
She said the city will limit the number of stalls and market-goers who can enter the area in order to abide by the mandatory physical distance.
Once the gradual operation of the night market is proven to not cause any transmission, the mayor said she will order for the gradual increase of tenants who can operate in the area.
Kraft said only 80 market-goers will be allowed in the area and 60 food and ready-to-wear (RTW) stalls will be allowed to operate.
Individuals below 21 years old and above 60 years old are prohibited to enter the night market.
The Roxas Night Market will be operating from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. daily.
"Sa mga pupunta ng Roxas Night Market, sundin lang natin ang mga (To those who will be visiting the Roxas Night Market, let's abide by the) imposed health and security measures for everyone's safety," Kraft said.