Metro Manila, 38 other areas shift to Alert Level 1 on March 1

Metro Manila and 38 other areas in the Philippines will shift to Alert Level 1 starting March 1, 2022.

The decision to move to the lowest alert level was approved by the government's coronavirus task force due to a continued decline in COVID-19 infections, with fewer than 2,000 cases reported for nine consecutive days.

This relaxation was previously delayed in December 2021 due to a surge in cases driven by the Omicron variant.

Under Alert Level 1, establishments and public transportation can operate at full capacity, and movement restrictions for people of all age groups are lifted, subject to local government unit guidelines.

The specific areas include Abra, Apayao, Baguio City, Kalinga, Dagupan City, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Batanes, Cagayan, Santiago City, Isabela, Quirino, Angeles City, Aurora, Bataan, Bulacan, Olongapo City, Pampanga, Tarlac, Cavite, Laguna, Marinduque, Puerto Princesa City, Romblon, Naga City, Catanduanes, Aklan, Bacolod City, Capiz, Guimaras, Siquijor, Biliran, Zamboanga City, Cagayan de Oro City, Camiguin, and Davao City.

Additionally, 18 areas in Luzon, 17 in the Visayas, and over 30 in Mindanao will be placed under Alert Level 2 from March 1 to 15.