Palace: Easing to Alert Level 1 expected to spur economy, lessen joblessness

MANILA, Philippines — Easing some areas, including Metro Manila, to the least restrictive Alert Level 1 is expected to spur economic activity and lessen jobless individuals in the next three months, Malacañang said Monday.

Citing data from the National Economic Development Authority, Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said an additional P9.4 billion worth in economic activity per week is expected when the new alert levels in the country are in effect starting Tuesday, March 1.

There will also be 170,000 less unemployed individuals in the next three months as a result of the easing restrictions.

“Ito ay kung tuluy tuloy ‘yung pag-Alert Level 1,” Nograles said in a Palace briefing.

Metro Manila and 38 other areas will be under Alert Level 1 from March 1 to March 15, while some areas were downgraded from Alert Level 3 to Alert Level 2, while there are areas retained under Alert Level 2.

READ: Metro Manila, 38 other areas under Alert Level 1 starting Mar. 1

Under Alert Level 1, well-fitted masks are still required, whether outdoors or indoors, including public transportation.

All private offices and workplaces, including public and private construction sites, may operate at 100% capacity but they may also continue to have flexible and alternative work arrangements.

Public transportation will likewise be at full seating capacity.

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