MECQ in Metro Manila extended until Sept 15

The Philippine government has decided to extend the Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ) in Metro Manila until September 15, 2021, reversing earlier plans to transition to a new alert level system.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque confirmed the MECQ extension, stating that it would remain in place until the pilot general community quarantine (GCQ) with an alert level system is implemented, whichever comes first.

As a result of the extended MECQ, indoor and al-fresco dine-in services, along with personal care services like beauty salons and nail spas, will continue to be prohibited.

Metro Manila was originally scheduled to begin a new community quarantine system focused on granular lockdowns on September 8, replacing the widespread MECQ.

Details regarding the new alert level system, which would have determined the operating capacity of high-risk businesses, remained unclear as of Tuesday.