With the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, an official of the Department of Health (DOH) said cinema operators should allot time for disinfection when cinemas open next month.
Dr. Eric Tayag, director of the DOH Knowledge Management and Information Technology Service, even recommended a decrease in the number of screenings so there will be time to clean and disinfect cinemas.
"Just like what they do in church, there's disinfection after every Mass," he said during the Laging Handa public briefing Thursday, Feb. 18.
"Instead of continuous screening, there should be a gap of two hours," added Tayag.
He said cinemas are also not allowed full capacity as part of the health and safety protocol.
"There should be spaces (between moviegoers), it is recommended two seats apart," said Tayag.
The government’s COVID-19 task force has eased the current limit of 30 percent of capacity for churches in areas under the general community quarantine.
Authorities also allowed the opening of more businesses like cinemas, museums, and tourist places like theme parks and historical landmarks.
Limited social events are also permitted at accredited establishments of the Department of Tourism (DOT).