Gov’t allows more activities in MECQ areas

MANILA, Philippines — The government has allowed more activities in areas under modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ), the second strictest level.

The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) said the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office may resume selling Lotto, Keno, Scratch-It, and Small Town Lottery tickets nationwide in MECQ areas.

The areas of the country under MECQ until May 31 are Santiago City, Quirino, Ifugao, and Zamboanga City.

The IATF also allowed the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority to conduct in-person assessments of household service workers in MECQ areas. The assessments would be limited to workers ready for deployment overseas, or those with contracts and visas, the task force said.

It also permitted the resumption of the Career Executive Service written examinations and assessment centers by the Career Executive Service Board, subject to health and safety protocols.

—Leila B. Salaverria