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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Al fresco dining, limited religious gatherings allowed under MECQ

Al fresco dining, limited religious gatherings allowed under MECQ

Published Apr 12, 2021 02:11 pm

Al fresco or outdoor dining in restaurants and religious gatherings at limited capacity are now allowed in the National Capital Region-plus (NCR-plus) bubble after it shifted to the modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) on Monday.

(Unsplash)

Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque made the announcement after President Duterte approved placing the NCR-plus bubble area under MECQ until the end of the month after undergoing a two-week ECQ, the strictest quarantine classification.

In his press briefing on Monday, Roque said dine-in services in food establishments are still prohibited but al fresco or outdoor dining will now be allowed in MECQ areas.

Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said that food establishments in the NCR-plus bubble will be allowed to have outdoor dining services for up to 50 percent capacity, with diagonal seating arrangement and acrylic dividers on tables.

Meanwhile, religious gatherings of up to 10 percent of venue capacity will be allowed under the MECQ. Roque said that local government units (LGUs) may increase it to 30 percent.

The NCR-plus bubble is under MECQ due to the fast-rising number of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases in the country.

Under MECQ, only those 18 to 65 years old will be allowed to go out. People with health risks or are pregnant are only allowed to go out to obtain essential goods and services or if they are going to work in allowed industries. LGUs are allowed to relax the minimum age range to 15 years old.

Only those 18 to 65 years old will be allowed to go out. People with health risks or are pregnant are only allowed to go out to obtain essential goods and services or if they are going to work in allowed industries. LGUs are allowed to relax the minimum age range to 15 years old.

There is no longer a set time for outdoor exercise under the MECQ. Outdoor walks, jogging, running, or biking will be allowed but within the general area of their residence only.

Limited operation of public transportation will be allowed but the use of active transportation such as biking is highly encouraged.

All industries not allowed to open during the ECQ period are now allowed to operate at 50 percent on-site capacity.

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