Gyms, spas allowed at limited capacity in GCQ bubble

MANILA – Gyms, fitness centers, and spas are still allowed to operate at limited capacity in Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal which are currently placed under a general community quarantine (GCQ) bubble until April 4, Malacañang said on Monday.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque made this clarification after President Rodrigo Duterte approved additional restrictions for five areas in the GCQ bubble to address a surge in Covid-19 cases in the country.

Roque said gyms and fitness centers inside the GCQ bubble are allowed to operate up to 75 percent of their capacity while spas are allowed to operate up to 50 percent capacity.

The operation of gyms, fitness centers, and spas is subject to adherence to safety protocols and minimum public health standards, particularly in the prohibition of aggregation in communal areas such as pantries and canteens, among others, he said.

He, however, noted that these establishments will only be allowed to operate depending on the local government units (LGUs). Currently, Quezon City has prohibited the operation of these establishments.

In restaurants, only outdoor dining will be allowed at 50 percent operational capacity provided that engineering and administrative controls are in place like acrylic or small dividers, limiting to two persons per table, among others.

Indoor dining in restaurants, cafes, and similar establishments will be limited to delivery and take-out.

Operations of driving schools, traditional cinemas and video and interactive game arcades, libraries, archives, museums, and cultural centers, limited social events at accredited tourism establishments and limited tourism attractions will be temporarily suspended except open-air tourism attractions.

All public gatherings including religious gatherings are prohibited while face-to-face meetings are discouraged. Weddings, baptisms, and funeral services will be limited to 10 persons.

Current operational capacities of essential and non-essential services/industries will be maintained subject to minimum health standards.

Public transportation will also retain current capacity while biking and walking will also be encouraged.

There will also be a common curfew imposed from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.