(UPDATE) Metro Manila's curfew will be lifted on Nov. 4 for the first time since the start of coronavirus quarantines in March 2020, authorities said, as more restrictions are relaxed with the drop in new infections.
Shopping malls will also be allowed to operate late into the night, up to 11 p.m., in time for the holiday shopping season, MMDA Chairman Benjamin Abalos said.
The Philippines on Tuesday reported 2,303 new COVID cases, the lowest since January, after battling a surge driven by the Delta variant in the third quarter. Cinemas and gyms were also recently allowed to reopen.
The face shield requirement in closed and crowded spaces is under review, according to the Inter-Agency Task Force on COVID-19.
"Generally 'yung curfew overall, wala na po by Nov. 4 sa Metro Manila," Abalos told DZBB radio. Until Nov. 3, a 12 a.m. to 4 a.m. will be in effect. At its strictest, the curfew started at 6 p.m. at the height of a surge in early 2021.
"'Yung Christmas shopping ng 11 [a.m.] to 11 [p.m.] will start po on Nov. 15," Abalos said in an interview with TeleRadyo.
Starting Thursday, more commuters can ride public transport in Metro Manila after the Department of Transportation (DOTr) allowed trains, buses, and jeepneys to increase capacity to 70%.
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