RESTRICTIONS STILL IN PLACE
Current community quarantine continues in place.
MEASURES
- The modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) continues in areas, including Metro Manila, Cavite, Laguna, Rizal and Bulacan until 18 August.
- For MECQ areas, strict home quarantine shall be observed in all households, residents shall be limited to accessing essential goods and services, and for work in permitted offices/establishments. Moreover, the residents are required to bring their quarantine passess while leaving their homes. In addition, businesses, such as barbershops, saloons and other establishments providing services on personal cares; gyms and sport facilities; and entertainment businesses will be prohibited under MECQ.
- It is expected that President Rodrigo Duterte will announce the new classifications of community quarantine in the country on 17 August.
- At the same time, a recommendation to postpone the opening school year on 24 August has been raised by a Senator. This is to allow more times for different stakeholders to prepare given challenges faced due to COVID-19.
IMPACT ON FOOD SUPPLY CHAIN
- Under MECQ, dining establishments and restaurants are only allowed to operate for take-out and delivery services.
- Establishments involved in the food production are allowed to operate at full operational capacity, excluding manufacturing industries classified as beverages, such as alcoholic drinks. These industries are only allowed to operate at a maximum of 50% operational capacity, while encouraging work-from-home and other flexible work arrangements where applicable.