Minors are now allowed to go out as long as they are accompanied by their parent or guardian, Chairman Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr. of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said.
In a media briefing, Abalos also said those below 18 are also allowed to do outdoor exercise regardless of comorbidities and vaccine status and are free to access “essential goods and services.”
Resolution No. 21-24, signed by the Metro Manila mayors, stated: “The intrazonal and interzonal travel of persons below eighteen years old shall be allowed provided that these persons shall be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian at all times.”
However, Abalos said that minors are not yet allowed inside the malls.
“Ito ay ginagawa para maproteksyonan ang mga bata [We are doing this to protect the children],” Abalos said.
Likewise, Abalos said that they will ask mall operators to adjust their mall hours in preparation for the upcoming holiday season.
He said that they are proposing that malls shall be opened at 11 a.m. instead of 10 a.m. be closed at 10 p.m. up or 12 midnight instead of 9 p.m.
This is to avoid traffic, Abalos said as he expect to start in November.