Quarantine rules ease up

The Inter-Agency Task Force Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) has eased at least three quarantine rules on Friday, October 16, the same day the Philippines recorded at least 3,000 new COVID-19 cases.

The three restrictions that have been eased up are t he curfew for those between 15 to 65 years old, outbound travel of Filipinos, and cockfighting activities.

Through Resolution 79 it approved on Thursday, the IATF said individuals between 15 to 65 years old may now go out of their homes. The resolution also amended the previous age range of 18 to 60 years old.

"Persons from 15 to 65 years of age are now allowed to go out. Local government units (LGUs) may impose a higher age limit for minors, depending on the COVID-19 situation in their respective jurisdictions," said Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque.

But IATF said those with immunodeficiency, comorbidity, or other health risks along with pregnant women shall remain in their residences at all times except when they need to buy essential goods and services, and for work.

This also depends on the LGU’s quarantine classifications. Meanwhile, IATF lifted the restriction for non- essential outbound travel of Filipinos, albeit travelers would need to comply with several requirements.

In public utility vehicles, the one- meter distancing rule will be replaced with the one- seat rule provided that the seven “commandments” will be followed at all times.

These commandments include wearing of mask and face shield; sanitation; adequate ventilation; appropriate distancing; and prohibition of eating, talking, and accommodation of asymptomatic passengers.

IATF chief implementer Secretary Carlito Galvez said that in Japan, for one, the one- meter distancing in public vehicles is no longer required but commuters continue to observe health protocols like wearing of masks. They also refrain from talking inside the vehicles and maintain physical distance especially while waiting at platforms.

Moreover, IATF approved the request for holding of more sporting events including beach volleyball, off- track horse racing, and even cockfighting.

For beach volley, the request of the Philippine Super Liga to hold a tournament has been approved under a “sports bubble”.

Off- track horse race betting stations may also operate in areas under general community quarantine or lower providing that health and safety protocols are in place.

Licensed cockpits may also now operate in areas under modified GCQ or lower, also subject to strict observance of health and safety protocols and implementing guidelines from the Department of Interior and Local Government ( DILG).

In- person audience, however, is not allowed.

“The local government units shall have the final decision on whether such the operation of licensed cockpits and the conduct of cockfighting activities can proceed in their respective localities,” IATF’s October 15 resolution reads. —