Quezon City designates some parks, sights ‘child-friendly safe zone’

Following allowing children ages 5 and older to visit areas under general community quarantine (GCQ) and modified general community quarantine (MGCQ), Quezon City has designated several open-air areas in the city as “child-friendly safe zones ”that children can visit.

According to the local government, children can play, exercise, and non-contact sports in these areas.

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Children must be accompanied by a fully vaccinated adult carrying their vaccination card.

According to Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, this response to the youth’s need for games and exercise outside the home will help them grow even in the midst of a pandemic.

The so-called safe zones include the Quezon Memorial Circle, Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center, the urban farming area of ​​Quezon City Hall, Amoranto Stadium, and 15 local parks in the barangays.

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This is just a preliminary list set by the Quezon City Parks Development and Administration Department.

Quezon City designates some parks, sights ‘child-friendly safe zone’

But open areas, tourist sites, al fresco dining, swimming pools, or other outdoor activity areas in malls and establishments can also be approved as safe zones through the Quezon City business permits licensing department.

Authorities will strictly set and enforce capacity limits in each area, in addition to adherence to health protocols.

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For incoming groups, only up to 10 people are allowed.

According to the city, the designation of the safe zone can still be revoked if a violation is detected or the number of COVID-19 cases in the area increases.

Last week, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority () Chairman Benhur Abalos appealed to parents to refrain from taking children to crowded places.

Although Abalos said he understands that parents are excited about the children’s release, it should still not be forgotten that there is still COVID-19.

“Kung nakita na nating medyo maraming tao, iwasan na natin. Ito’y para sa anak natin at para sa atin din,” said Abalos.

According to Health Spokesperson Maria Rosario Vergeire, the Inter-Agency Task Force’s (IATF) consent to the release of children is also based on studies showing that they are highly affected by the long lockdown.

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