Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 23) — Gyms, spas, and internet cafes in Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna and Rizal will be closed for two weeks.
The Department of Health issued the advisory on Tuesday, while the NCR Plus ‘bubble’ is in place until April 4.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque earlier announced in his briefing that all 17 mayors of Metro Manila agreed to close down these businesses.
“Alinsunod sa guidelines na in-issue ng DTI (Department of Trade and Industry) na merong kakayahan ang LGUs na isara ang gyms, spas, at internet cafe, nagbotohan na po ang Metro Manila mayors at sarado po ito sa susunod na dalawang linggo,” Roque said.
[Translation: In accordance with the guidelines issued by the DTI that LGUs have the power to close down gyms, spas, and internet cafes, Metro Manila mayors already voted on this and have agreed to temporarily close them down for the next two weeks.]
Under Resolution 104 of the Inter-Agency Task Force for Emerging Infectious Diseases, gyms, spas and other personal care services were still initially allowed to operate at a limited capacity despite restrictions on non-essential travel.
In an interview with CNN Philippines’ The Source, OCTA Research fellow Guido David noted that every establishment which promotes close interaction and reduces physical distancing “will definitely be high-risk for infection.”
“In fact, there have been many studies that looked at which establishments or events lead to high risk of infection. That includes buffets, and I think that may include spas and gym,” he said.
Roque and other officials previously clarified that staycations, which also count as non-essential travel, are still allowed within the NCR Plus bubble.
READ: Despite COVID-19 surge, staycations within NCR Plus bubble still allowed
Meanwhile, restaurants may still continue with their delivery and take-out services, as well as outdoor dining but only at 50% capacity.
ALAMIN ANG KARAGDAGANG GUIDELINES PARA SA NCR+!
Simula Marso 22 hanggang Abril 4, 2021, ang mga gym, spa, at internet…
Posted by Department of Health (Philippines) on Monday, March 22, 2021
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