Palace: No to canteen dine-in, common smoking areas in workplaces under MECQ areas

MANILA, Philippines — Dine-in in canteens and common smoking areas are no longer allowed in workplaces for areas under modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ), Malacañang said Tuesday.

This is among the health protocols set in place by Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez and approved by President Rodrigo Duterte, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said.

“Walang dine-in sa mga canteen. Packed food at delivery lamang po,” Roque said in an online briefing.

(No dine-in in canteens. Only packed food and delivery are allowed.)

“Bawal ang common smoking areas. Pinapayagan lang po ang individual smoking areas or booths in open spaces,” he added.

(Common smoking areas are not allowed. Only individual smoking areas or booths in open spaces are allowed.)

Roque also reiterated that companies must provide a shuttle service for their employees.

Companies should also designate health protocol officers to ensure compliance with minimum health standards like frequent hand-washing, disinfection of areas, and the wearing of face masks.

The new protocols were issued after chief implementer of the government’s -pandemic response Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said that workplaces in economic hubs are among the most critical areas for COVID-19 transmission.