Philippines: Officials to implement alert level 3 measures in Metro Manila Oct. 16-31 /update 20

Event

The government will relax COVID-19 measures in Metro Manila to alert level 3 Oct. 16-31. Officials employ a multi-tier alert level system for applying COVID-19 restrictions in cities and municipalities in Metro Manila based on local disease activity. It consists of alert levels 1 through 5 in order of increasingly strict controls.

Under alert level 3 measures, a nightly 00:00-04:00 curfew is in place. Facemasks are required in public spaces. Dine-in services at indoor and outdoor food establishments may operate at 30 and 100 percent capacity, respectively. Individual outdoor exercise is allowed; outdoor contact sports and indoor sports activities may take place at 30 percent capacity. Other indoor activities, like tourist attractions, meetings, conferences, exhibitions, social events, recreational venues, and personal care services may take place at 30 percent capacity. Businesses with Safety Seal certification may operate at an additional 10 percent capacity. Authorities allow all other businesses to operate at full capacity as long as they are not located within granular lockdown areas, but encourage companies to deploy minimal staff on-site and implement flexible work arrangements. Government agencies must operate with at least 30 percent on-site capacity while implementing telecommuting arrangements.

Authorities may impose localized lockdowns in local government units (LGU) with high COVID-19 activity at short notice. Increased security is likely to continue across Metro Manila. Lingering business and transport disruptions are possible.

Advice

Strictly heed the instructions of authorities. Confirm appointments. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by law enforcement officers. Make allowances for likely business disruptions.