Start of New Normal: Dos and Don’ts during MECQ

Mitzi Santos

May 15, 2020

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  If you think that Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine or MECQ is your ticket to having your normal life back, well you are wrong. VERY WRONG.

  There are still rules and regulations to be followed. The government and The World Health Organization are against rushing the lifting of the ECQ in areas with high cases.

  National Capital Region and other high risk areas will be under the MECQ starting tomorrow May 16, 2020.

  With MECQ, rules and regulations are more relaxed but has stricter policies compared to GCQ.

  Cities under MECQ are allowed to do the following:

  1. Public shuttle will be allowed provided they will comply to safety protocols.

  2. Private transportation permitted are company shuttles, personal vehicles for workers, bicycle, motorcycle, and e-bikes.

  3. Essential shops like bookstores, toy shop, clothing stores, and office supply store will open.

  4. Restaurants are open for take-out and delivery services only.

  5. Everyone must still remain at home except those who work as frontliners and other essential workers.

  6. Small religious gatherings will be allowed as long as they have five (5) or less participants.

  7. Outdoor exercises like walking, running, and biking are allowed. Just wear masks and observe two-meter distancing.

  8. Skeletal onsite staff is advised. The rest of the staff must work from home.

  9. Public and private construction will start operating under MECQ. Employees aged 21-59 only will be allowed to go back to work. Barracks shall be provided for workers for the duration of the contract.

  10. For employees who needs to report to work, always bring your ID and employment certificate. Companies should also provide services for their employees reporting for work.

  The following activities will be prohibited during the MECQ:

  1. Salons, barber shops, gyms and spas are still forbidden tol operate under MECQ.

  2. Entertainment stores, movie houses, and videoke bars shall remain closed.Libraries, museums, and cultural centers are still not allowed to open to public.

  3. No loitering in the malls.

  4. School premises will remain closed. If they wish to do online classes, they are free to do so.

  5. No inter-island or domestic flights will be allowed.

  6. Tourist destinations are still won’t be open to public.

  With MECQ, expect a more relaxed policy. However, social distancing and wearing masks should always be observed to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

  Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine will be implemented starting tomorrow, May 16, 2020.

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