List of places in Metro Manila that children can visit will be released

The Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) on Emerging Infectious Diseases has allowed children aged 5 and above to leave their homes in areas under general community quarantine (GCQ) and modified GCQ.

Police and the Philippine Coast Guard are on patrol to remind Baywalk walkers to adhere to minimum health standards.

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At this Sunday’s meeting of the Metro Manila Council, the mayors of the capital region decided to follow the IATF’s recommendation.

According to Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Benhur Abalos, the recommendation went through experts and the Department of Health, and children also need to come out.

In the next few days, each city will release a list of places where children can go.

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“Ilalabas natin ang listahan para may guide lang ang nasa Metro Manila, ‘yong mga different parks na pwede nilang puntahan… pero keeping in mind ‘yong capacity,” said Abalos.

There will also be guards in the designated areas to ensure the area’s capacity and monitor the physical distancing of the children.

The IATF also clarified this Sunday that they have not just lowered the number of people allowed to leave the house to 5 years old.

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Public health expert Dr. Anthony Leachon favors allowing children to go out, but he said it can be gradual or only slowly.

It is said that 10 to 15 years old can be allowed first, and then it would be observed for 1 month if there is an increase in cases in children.

The Department of Tourism welcomed the new policy.

List of places in Metro Manila that children can visit will be released

According to Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat, this is an opportunity for families to visit outdoor destinations such as Intramuros.

According to the latest IATF resolution, children can be in the following areas:

  •  park
  •  playground
  •  beach
  •  biking at hiking trail
  •  outdoor tourist sites
  •  outdoor non-contact courts at venues
  •  alfresco dining establishments

But children are still not allowed in mixed-use, indoor-outdoor buildings, and facilities such as malls.

According to the IATF, LGUs have the power to adjust the policy depending on the situation in their area.

The Metro Manila Council is still meeting the new protocols.