Ever since the imposition of quarantine in the country, market research analysts saw a surge in demand for food delivery and takeout services due to consumers wanting to minimize contact with other people.
That’s probably why even with the strict implementation of curfew hours, many food establishments were allowed to operate until 11 p.m. as per the Memorandum Circular 20-39 issued by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
But on Thursday, Aug. 20, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority General Manager Jojo Garcia announced that they are officially easing rules for food businesses by allowing them to resume their 24-hour delivery and takeout services.
Prior to this, Manila City Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso already signed Executive Order No. 35 which was based on the same premise.
https://www.facebook.com/iskomorenodomagoso/posts/3176664745736280?__cft__[0]=AZXN84dFnewQM2WKm2_RJVmsH46e3ZRyz6qNVy3wwEe_DTSKlp_C173cwXlJOI_klx9GM93srAgB9WzOSUd8Q5i0Fhwf2yGfYvKblBVIspCRpt_DRK_fWLronDMNpOM0SKA3eBRiXYbPTx7TRXZJ839u_TcorANFV7oTGiY9yCWMnA&__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R
Domagoso said that this is the city government’s way to alleviate business vulnerability in Manila City and help the residents economically survive the ongoing crisis.
“[Food establishments are] allowed to operate beyond the curfew hours of the city,” Domagoso said in a statement.
“We must learn how to live while there is COVID-19, and at the same time, we must learn to go back to work safely and to discipline ourselves—for us to help stimulate our economy,” he added.
The city mayor also emphasized that food businesses should strictly follow health protocols and guidelines set by the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).
“[They are] allowed to operate at 30 percent venue capacity, provided that [they] strictly adhere to minimum public health standards at all times as set by the government, such as, but not limited to social distancing protocols,” Domagoso concluded.
Header photo courtesy of Maria Tan for Inquirer.net
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