As gyms are once again allowed to reopen under the extended general community quarantine (GCQ), Manila Mayor Francicso "Isko Moreno" Domagoso called on the public and gym owners to observe strict health protocols
In an interview over CNN Philippines' The Source, Domagoso urged gym-goers to wear face masks, face shields, and practicing social distancing to prevent COVID-19 infections.
"We must bear in mind as citizens and individuals that there's still danger. While gumagaan ang mga polisiya ng gobyerno, ito ay pagtungon sa buhay at kabuhayan but we must be responsible also, mag-iingat pa rin tayo dahil meron pang panganib (While government policies are easing, this is done in response to livelihood. We still have to be careful because there's still danger)," Domagoso said.
The Manila mayor also urged gym owners to implement scheduling to prevent overcrowding.
"Mahigpit ko lang pong hinihiling sa ating mga negosyante, na yung mga instructor must wear mask and face shield at all times. Doon naman sa mga pumupunta, they have to wear a mask and during exercise, they can take it off and wear it again after a particular set (I appeal to our entrepreneurs: order your instructors to wear face masks and face shields at all times. For gym- goers wear a mask during exercise, they can take it off and wear it again after a particular set)," Domagoso instructed.
"Sa gym kailangan mag-practice sila ng (In gyms, they need to practice) scheduling when they're going to accommodate their clients, they must practice and observe discipline," he added.
Domogoso signed Executive Order No. 37 on Monday (August 31), permitting Internet cafes and gyms to operate only at 30 percent capacity.