More economic activities such as nail and skin care services, except full body massage, are now allowed to operate in areas under the General Community Quarantine (GCQ) as the government further eases restrictions after close to five months of rolling lockdowns, forcing business activities to a halt.
Department of Trade and Industry Memorandum Circular No. 20-44, issued on July 31, 2020, re-categorizing some business activities category 4 to category and the additional services allowed for barbershops and salons starting August 1.
Under the MC, barbershops and salons in areas declared under GCQ are allowed to operate all hair, nail, and skin services, except full body massage at 50 percent operational capacity and 75 percent under modified GCQ (MGCQ).
MC 20-44 has also allowed testing, tutorial, and review centers; Internet cafes; pet grooming; drive-in cinemas; dermatological clinics offering aesthetic procedures; other personal care services, except full body massage.
Gyms, fitness centers, and sports facilities are allowed but limited to individual workouts only at 30 percent operational capacity. Group workout sessions (zumba, yoga and pilates) composed of two or more persons shall be strictly prohibited.
MC 20-44 also adjusted the operating hours of all food and retail businesses to maximum of up to 11 p.m. and food delivery services of up to 1 a.m. As such, local government units are enjoined to adjust curfew hours accordingly to enhance income opportunities for workers and business owners.
These services are subject to the mandatory minimum health standards protocols and respective protocols per business establishment and activities.
DTI shall review the list of Category I-IV business establishments and activities every 15 days to assess whether an increase in operational capacity, a re-categorization from Category IV or Category III, or additional services may be allowed, subject to certain parameters aimed at preventing the transmission of the coronavirus.
DTI Secretary Ramon M. Lopez said there has been high compliance of 90 to 100 percent of health protocols among establishments.