Metro Manila mayors to keep NCR under Alert Level 3

Metro Manila mayors have decided to keep the National Capital Region (NCR) under Alert Level 3, with no immediate plans to recommend a shift to Alert Level 4.

MMDA Chairman Benhur Abalos stated that mayors "see no need to escalate to Alert Level 4" for the time being, emphasizing continuous monitoring of the healthcare utilization rate.

The current Alert Level 3 status for NCR is set to expire on January 15.

Intensive care unit (ICU) bed utilization increased from 43 percent on Jan. 6 to 52 percent on Jan. 9, while ward beds used increased from 50 percent to 65 percent during the same period.

Under Alert Level 3, indoor venues can operate at 30% capacity and outdoor venues at 50%.

Escalating to Alert Level 4 would reduce indoor venue capacity to 10% and outdoor to 30%.

Abalos noted that public mobility in malls and on roads has decreased, suggesting public self-regulation.

The Metro Manila Council's resolution also prohibits unvaccinated individuals from leaving their homes, a restriction that will be implemented temporarily under Alert Level 3.