Cinemas Allowed to Reopen, Churches Can Increase Capacity, Says IATF
Cinemas will be allowed to reopen while churches and places of worship will be allowed in areas under GCQ, Malacanang said Friday.
Starting Feb. 15, chruches and places of worship in GCQ areas can accept up to 50% capacity from 30%, in time for Ash Wednesday, said Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque, who is also spokesman of the Inter-Agency Task Force on COVID-19.
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Roque listed "traditional cinemas" as among businesses that will be allowed to "open or further expand." The reopening will be subject to implementing guidelines from local governments and relevant regulatory agencies, he said.
Currently, cinema operators have resorted to creative ways to screen films outside the movie house, from open-air drive thrus to indoor canals with gondolas.
The IATF also approved the opening or further expansion of the following, according to Roque:
- Driving schools
- Libraries, archives, museums, and cultural centers
- Meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions, and limited social events at credited establishments of the Department of Tourism
- Limited tourist attractions, such as parks, theme parks, natural sites and historical landmarks.
"These businesses/industries shall comply with the strict observance of minimum public health standards set by the Department of Health," he said.
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