DTI nixes extension of GCQ bubble beyond April 4
Gyms and spas are not allowed to operate yet during the two-week GCQ bubble for NCR, adjacent provinces.
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) expressed hope that the general community quarantine (GCQ) bubble placed over Metro Manila and four other nearby provinces will not be extended beyond April 4, DTI Undersecretary Ruth Castelo said Friday.
In a televised briefing, Castelo said it is possible to strike a balance between health and the reopening of the economy for as long as the public follows the minimum health protocols.
“Kung tatanungin mo ang DTI, gusto na sana natin na mag open na ulit sa April 5,” Castelo said when asked if the DTI is keen on possibly extending the GCQ bubble.
(If you were to ask the DTI, we would want to open again on April 5.)
“That’s why we appeal to everyone, lahat tayo sama sama, tulong tulong na mapababa yung surge para makapagopen na tayo tuluy tuloy on April 5,” she added.
(That’s why we are appealing to everyone, let us all help each other in decreasing the surge so we can open again on April 5.)
Restaurants, cafes, and establishments were limited to delivery, take-out, and outdoor dining during the two-week GCQ bubble.
In Metro Manila, gyms, spas, and internet shops were ordered closed during the GCQ bubble.
DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez has also earlier rejected possible tighter restrictions, saying it will possibly lead to more problems beyond the COVID-19 pandemic.
