Barbershops, dine-in services, religious gatherings to resume under MGCQ

Barber shops, establishments providing dine-in services, and religious gatherings are set to make a partial comeback in areas under the modified general community quarantine (MGCQ).

While no areas in the country have been placed under the MGCQ, the omnibus guidelines of its implementation were already released by the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases on Saturday.

Based on the guidelines, barber shops, salons, and other personal care service establishments shall be allowed to operate at a maximum of 50 percent venue capacity.

Dine-in service in food retail establishments such as supermarkets, grocery stores, and food preparation establishments shall also be allowed under the MGCQ provided that the seating capacity may not exceed 50 percent.

Everybody out

Under the MGCQ, everyone is now allowed outside their residence.

Individual and group outdoor exercises, including non-contact sports such as golf, tennis, table tennis, swimming, among others, shall be allowed as long as minimum health standards are observed.

Public gatherings

The following public gatherings, among others, are also allowed under the MGCQ provided that participants shall be limited to 50 percent of the venue or seating capacity:

1. Movie screenings

2. Concerts

3. Sporting events

4. Entertainment activities

5. Community assemblies

6. Religious gatherings

7. Non-essential work gatherings

8. Classes Residential face-to-face classes may also be conducted in Higher Education Institutions provided there is strict compliance with minimum health standards, consultation with local government units, and compliance with guidelines set by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

However, HEI activities that involve mass gathering of students shall continue to be prohibited.

For Basic Education, the Basic Education Learning Continuity Plan of the Department of Education (DepEd) shall be adopted.

Work

Work in all public and private offices shall be allowed to resume physical work in full capacity with alternative arrangements for senior citizens, those with immunodeficiency, other health risks, and pregnant women.

Transportation

The road, rail, maritime, and aviation sectors of public transportation will be allowed to operate at the capacity in accordance with guidelines issued by the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

In all public transports, a distance of one meter between passengers should be strictly observed.

Private transportation such as company shuttles and personal vehicles utilized by persons authorized outside their residences are allowed subject to DOTr guidelines. Biking and other non-motorized transportation are strongly encouraged.

Construction

Under the MGCQ, all public and private construction projects shall be allowed but with strict compliance with the construction safety guidelines for projects during the COVID-19 pandemic issued by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).