By Khriscielle Yalao
The Pasig City government released an ordinance pertaining to the guidelines for unvaccinated individuals under Alert Level 3 on Thursday, Jan. 13, in accordance with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority's (MMDA) resolution that restricts the mobility of unvaccinated individuals in public spaces.
The MMDA Resolution No. 22-01, s. 2022, agreed upon by the Metro Manila Council (MMC) on Jan. 3, urged each city in Metro Manila to draft and implement ordinances to enhance restrictions for unvaccinated individuals under Alert Level 3.
The resolution was made to ensure public health and safety due to the spike of COVID-19 cases aided by the Omicron variant
According to Ordinance No. 1, s. 2022, unvaccinated individuals are allowed to venture in public spaces when they are buying essential goods such as groceries or medication, and accessing essential services such as hospital appointments.
When reporting for on-site work, unvaccinated individuals are required to take a RT-PCR test every two weeks, which will be paid by the individuals themselves. To be admitted for work, they must present a COVID-19 negative result.
A rapid antigen test may be used if the RT PCR test or result is not immediately available.
The ordinance made clear that testing may not be required for on-site work if unvaccinated individuals can present a medical certificate showing that vaccination is not recommended by his or her doctor, or a certificate of membership from a religious sector that does not allow vaccinations.
Testing is also not required for on-site work for partially vaccinated individuals who are on the waitlist for their second dose.
Unvaccinated individuals may also do outdoor exercise activities, provided that they stay in the general area of their residence.
Unvaccinated persons who are caught violating the terms within the ordinance are mandated to pay a P1,000 fine. At the discretion of the local courts, individuals may face one to six months imprisonment, depending on the severity of the violation.
Businesses that are caught violating the ordinance will have their business permits and licenses to operate suspended, coupled with payment of a P5,000 fine.
On a Facebook post, Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto said residents needs to cooperate, both individually and as a community, in order to provide enough protection for all, especially against the Omicron variant.
The Pasig city government reminds both vaccinated and unvaccinated residents to continue following the minimum public health standards, and refrain from leaving their residences for unnecessary purposes.