Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 7) — The Department of Trade and Industry is looking into increasing the operating capacities of restaurants whose staff are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
“We can consider this maybe additional percentage capacity especially kung lahat nung staff doon sa restaurant na ‘yun (if all the staff in that restaurant) are fully vaccinated,” Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said Wednesday during a Senate hearing on the impact of the pandemic on various industries.
Lopez said the proposal made by the group Restaurant Owners of the Philippines would boost the confidence of both the workers and customers.
He said stickers may be placed on establishments whose staff have all received their first and second coronavirus shots, similar to the safety seals currently posted on businesses compliant with health protocols.
Other measures can be considered to aid the food and beverage service industry – including more loans, tax relief, and livelihood support, the DTI chief added.
The operating capacities of commissaries, restaurants, and eateries depend on the community quarantine level in their area. In Metro Manila – which is under general community quarantine – indoor dining is allowed at 40% of venue capacity, and up to 50% for al fresco or outdoor dining.
More than 2.7 million people have been fully vaccinated as of July 1, according to government data. Over 11 million doses have been administered amid ongoing efforts to protect much of the population against COVID-19.
