Metro Manila Mayors Reject Reopening of Cinemas
Metro Manila's mayors are not in favor of reopening cinemas, even if they have been allowed by the Inter-Agency Task Force on COVID-19, MMDA Chairman Benjamin Abalos said.
Abalos cited the risk of staying in an enclosed and airconditioned space for the entire duration of a film. "Hindi naman kamukha ng restaurant kung kakain ka, hindi ganuun katagal," he told Teleradyo.
The IATF over the weekend gave cinemas the go-ahead to reopen, subject to guidelines from local government officials. The task force also allowed churches to increase capacity to 50% from 30%
ALSO READ:
Is It Time to Wear a Medical-Grade Face Mask?
Metro Manila Evaded Holiday Surge in COVID Cases: Think Tank
Duterte Tells Public: Wear Face Mask with Nose Covered
Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte said mall owners were unlikely to reopen cinemas even if allowed since their theater business wouldn't "play a big part in terms of economic impact."
"If we allow it to open, for the few that will agree to open, parang the risk is not commensurate to the gain," she said.
The IATF also approved the opening or further expansion of the following, according to Presidential Spokesperson Harry 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.