THE Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases has tightened restrictions again in areas under general community quarantine (GCQ) amid the surge in coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) cases.
In its Resolution No. 103 adopted on March 18, 2021, the IATF suspended the operations of the following until April 4, 2021:
Meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions as well as religious gatherings are again limited to 30 percent of venue capacity, lesser than the current 50 percent.
"Religious gatherings shall observe a maximum of 30 percent of the venue capacity provided that there is no objection from the local government unit where the religious gathering may take place. Provided further, that such LGUs have the discretion to allow higher venue capacity not exceeding 50 percent based on conditions in their localities," the resolution reads.
Venue capacity for dine-in restaurants, cafes, personal care services was also reduced to a maximum of 50 percent of capacity.
The IATF also encouraged local government units to defer the conduct of non-critical activities, which may result in mass gatherings.
It reiterated that cockfighting and cockpit operations remain suspended nationwide.
"Local government units shall retain the authority to impose a higher age limit for age-based restrictions for minors depending on the Covid-19 situation in their respective jurisdictions," the IATF said.
"The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority is directed to facilitate the establishment of reasonable and uniform exemptions with the local government units in the National Capital Region," it added.
Areas under GCQ until March 31, 2021 are Metro Manila (National Capital Region), Apayao, Batangas, Kalinga, Mountain Province, Baguio City, Lanao del Sur, Davao City, Iligan City and Tacloban City.
The rest of the country is under modified general community quarantine.
Meanwhile, the Batangas City local government unit has suspended leisure activities in resorts and accommodation establishments.
The order took effect on Thursday, March 18, 2021.
"Pinapayuhan ang mga establishment na ito na kumuha ng kaukulang permits sa Department of Tourism alinsunod sa IATF guidelines," the LGU announced.
Several local governments, particularly in Metro Manila and the province of Bulacan, earlier imposed stricter measures to combat the rising Covid-19 cases.
Tagaytay City in Cavite, however, belied reports of a lockdown. (VoxPop Philippines)