Internet cafés, gyms allowed to open Aug 1 in the Philippines

MANILA, Jul 30, 2020, The Manila Times. Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) has allowed the reopening of more businesses in areas under general community quarantine, The Manila Times reported.

Lopez confirmed that internet shops, gyms, tutorial and review centers, and drive-in cinemas could resume their operations starting August 1.

Also included in the list are personal grooming (hair, nail, skin care except full body massage), aesthetic services and pet grooming.

Lopez said these businesses would be allowed to operate at 30-percent capacity but should follow stricter health protocol.

Palace spokesman Harry Roque Jr. said the Department of Trade and Industry, in coordination with the Department of Health, would craft the mandatory health protocols for each business activity.

Roque said the IATF-EAID also approved the reopening of other business activities in areas under modified general community quarantine.

These include full body massage; tattoo and body piercing; live events; entertainment industries; libraries, archives, museums and cultural centers; tourist destinations; and language, driving, dance/acting/voice schools.

But cockpits, beerhouses and similar establishments serving alcoholic drinks, and kid amusement industries will remain closed.