The Metro Manila Council (MMC) has approved a resolution on Wednesday lifting the prevailing standardized and unified curfew hours in the National Capital Region starting Thursday, November 4, 2021.
“The Metro Manila mayors have agreed to lift the curfew hours in the metropolis…. But we will respect the implementation of curfew on minors based on existing ordinances of the respective LGUs [local government units],” Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos revealed.
According to MMDA Resolution 21-25, the lifting of the curfew hours from 12 midnight to 4 a.m. will complement the adjustment of mall operating hours to provide both mall goers and mall employees ample time to get home.
“The lifting of curfew hours in Metro Manila will help spread out influx of people coming to and from malls to further reduce the risk of virus’ transmission,” the MMDA chief said.
The same resolution stated that mall owners have agreed to extend their operating hours until 11 p.m., instead of the usual 10 p.m. to help alleviate traffic in Metro Manila ahead of the Christmas shopping rush.
Curfew hours for minors or those under 18 years old shall be subject to existing ordinances of the Metro Manila local government units, along with the continued observance and enforcement of Covid-19 protocols and minimum public health standards, such as wearing of face shields and face masks, and observing social distancing.
The MMC, composed of the 17 local government units of Metro Manila, is the governing body and policy-making body of the MMDA.