The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is pushing for the further decentralization of the decision-making process for necessary quarantine measures to local government units (LGUs).
In a Congress hearing on Tuesday, Trade Secretary Ramon M. Lopez said that LGUs could have better assessment of their current situation amid the pandemic, allowing them to impose more appropriate responses.
âKasi ho, iba-iba ang sitwasyon sa bawat lugar [The situation in different areas varies],â he explained. âThey [LGUs] can have a better reading of the family and the community.â
Lopez said that decentralization of certain quarantine measures has been observed already, citing the protocols regarding the wearing of face shields.
For example, under Alert Level 4, LGUs can decide for themselves if face shields are a must. Wearing one is voluntary under Alerts 1-3, while it is mandatory for Alert 5.
Still, the DTI chief said that LGUs must be guided by the overall national policy and âfine tune itâ according to their situation.
Lopez said the LGUs can further establish rules on mobility, citing interzonal movements to promote tourism.
In addition, the trade chief noted LGUs may also be able to craft guidelines for face-to-face classes moving forward.
Meanwhile, the DTI official said he wants Covid-19 antigen testing kits be generally available in drug stores.
âDown the road, I hope we can have a policy and support on individual [antigen] testingâŚmoving to the new normal, being responsible for oneâs self,â he said.
It is crucial for the public to test themselves before going out to decrease the probability of spreading the virus, Lopez pointed out.
In relation to this, Lopez stressed the importance of rolling out the third dose or booster for Covid-19 jabs.
Metro Manila is under Alert Level 2 until November 30.
Indoor dine-in and outdoor dine-in services for restaurants are allowed at 50 percent and 70 percent, respectively. The same indoor and outdoor capacity is provided to gyms, cinemas and movie houses.