Bacolod execs hail downgrading of city’s status from GCQ to MGCQ

BACOLOD CITY –– Officials of this city welcomed the decision of the Inter-Agency Task for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) to downgrade its status from general community quarantine (GCQ) to modified general community quarantine (MGCQ).

Mayor Evelio Leonardia said more businesses can now operate to help reinvigorate the local economy.

The mayor, however, reminded the public to observe the health protocols and to remain vigilant to prevent a spike in COVID-19 cases.

Leonardia on Monday issued Executive Order No. 73, Series of 2020 placing Bacolod City under MGCQ starting Dec. 1 to 31.

Frank Carbon, Metro Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and Industry chief executive officer, was elated upon learning about the development.

“MGCQ is very good news for the local economy. It will allow more businesses to open and generate jobs that are badly needed,” he said.

“It will now allow for more inter-island travel and the infusion of money into the local economy,” he added.

Executive Order 73 sets the curfew in Bacolod City from 11 p.m. to 4 a.m., but Leonardia said it could be further shortened in mid-December.

Malls and commercial centers in Bacolod City are now allowed to operate at 100-percent capacity, provided they comply with required health protocols.

Businesses still not allowed to operate are beer houses and similar establishments, whose primary business is serving alcoholic drinks, and kid amusement industries.

Businesses allowed to operate at only 50 percent venue capacity are barbershops, salons, and other personal care service establishments, dine-in restaurants, fast food, and food retail establishments, including those in supermarkets, grocery stores, and food preparation establishments.

Also allowed to operate at 50 percent of their operating capacity are language, driving, dance, acting and voice schools, cinemas, theaters, libraries, archives, museums, cultural centers, tourist destinations, tattoo and body piercing, and live events.

Under MGCQ, persons below 15 years old and those who are over 65 years of age, those with immune deficiencies, comorbidities, or other health risks, and pregnant women, will continue to remain in their residences at all times, except for some instances, like obtaining essential goods and services or for work in permitted industries and offices.

Indoor and outdoor non-contact sports and other forms of exercise, such as but not limited to walking, jogging, running, biking, golf, swimming, tennis, badminton, equestrian, range shooting, and skateboarding are allowed provided that minimum health protocols are observed.

LZB