Metro Manila mayors have agreed to lift the curfew hours in the National Capital Region starting Thursday, Nov. 4, for the first since the COVID-19 pandemic in an effort to help revive the country's economy.
Under Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Resolution No. 21-25 signed by all the 17 mayors, the lifting of the curfew hours, which was previously imposed as a health measure against COVID-19, will complement the adjusted mall operating hours of 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. in preparation for the holiday shopping.
"The lifting of curfew hours in Metro Manila will help spread out influx of people coming to and from malls to further reduce the risk of virus’ transmission," MMDA Chairman Benhur Abalos said in a statement.
“The Metro Manila mayors have agreed to lift the curfew hours in the metropolis," he added.
However, Abalos clarified that minors will still be subject to their respective city's ordinances that may have different curfew rules on those below 18 years old.
While the lifting of the curfew hours starts Thursday, Abalos said, the adjusted mall hours will only begin on Nov. 15.
Meanwhile, midnight bazaars will also be allowed, while shopping sales will only be allowed during weekends and holidays to prevent heavy traffic brought by the surge of people going to the malls during weekdays.
“Siguro ambag na rin natin ito sa ekonomiya ng ating bansa (Perhaps it is all our contribution to the economy),” Abalos said in a TeleRadyo interview.