This Week in Metro Manila (August 29 to September 4, 2020)

The Malacañang announced that the curfew in Metro Manila under the general community quarantine (GCQ) will be from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM. According to Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque, the uniform curfew exempts Pasig, Muntinlupa, and Manila because the cities’ local government already set their own curfew hours [1]. Along with setting a unified curfew, the Palace also limited gatherings to 10 people. Personal and pet grooming services, review centers, and entertainment and sports facilities will also remain closed until August 31.

The newly-renovated Lagusnilad Underpass, which connects , was opened to the public last August 24 [2]. The place now has floors made from non-skid materials, which will be useful especially during the rainy season. In addition to the removal of vandalism and repairs of damages, the underpass also underwent a transformation through vibrant murals depicting Manila landmarks and historical events in the Philippines. According to Mayor Francisco Domagoso, the artworks showcase Filipino art, history, and culture in public spaces. A mural of frontliners was also featured.

Besides improving the underpass’s aesthetic, the renovation also covered the addition of a Manila Interactive Info Desk where public information about the city can be accessed. Domagoso placed the underpass under renovation in November 2019. The rehabilitation project operated under donations from private companies and local government agencies. The next renovation target is the underpass that connects Intramuros and Lawton Avenue.

The Quezon City government now requires residents to present quarantine passes when entering malls, commercial buildings, and other establishments in the city during the GCQ [3]. QC Mayor Joy Belmonte said that requiring quarantine passes ensures that residents are only going outside for work and for getting essentials. Company IDs can also be presented along with the quarantine passes.

Those below 21 years old and 60 years old and above and high-risk individuals are not allowed to go out unless for work and obtaining essential services and goods.They must also present their work IDs and quarantine passes. Individuals doing non-group and non-contact outdoor exercises are also required to present their quarantine passes.

Manila Mayor Francisco Domagoso signed Executive Order No. 35 on August 19 allowing restaurants to have 24-hour takeout and delivery services. According to the EO, the round-the-clock operations can help in boosting economic growth during the pandemic.

Restaurants are required to observe the standard health protocols such as regular sanitation and disinfection, limited venue capacity, physical distancing, and mandatory PPE for workers [4]. Restaurants shall cater only to authorized persons outside of residence (APOR) during curfew hours. Dine-in services are allowed in areas under GCQ as long as restaurants operate at the level of capacity set by the local government.

Pasig City’s new executive order enforces a barangay coding scheme in the Pasig Mega Market. Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto signed Executive Order 43, which sets the market schedule of the residents per barangay. The schedule of the barangays are as follows:

• Pinagbuhatan

• Kalawaan

• Caniogan

• San Antonio

• Bambang

• Pineda

• Bagong Ilog

• San Joaquin

• Kapitolyo

• Buting

• Sagad

• Sta. Cruz

• Kapasigan

• Oranbo

• San Miguel

• Manggahan

• Rosario

• Santolan

• Sta. Lucia

• Maybunga

• San Nicolas

• Ugong

• Dela Paz

• Palatiw

• Sto. Tomas

• Malinao

• Sumilang

• San Jose

• Bagong Katipunan

• Sta. Rosa.

The market is closed on Mondays for disinfection. Market-goers are required to present quarantine passes, IDs, or barangay certificates as proof of residence [5].

August 31 is the National Heroes Day in the Philippines. It is a special non-working holiday.

Go to Yoorekka for more COVID-19 updates in Metro Manila.