Manila Bulletin
DTI hopes age restriction eased in Metro Manila to stimulate economy
Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez urged Metro Manila mayors to adopt the Inter-Agency Task Force's resolution to ease age restrictions, allowing individuals aged 10 to 65 to go out, to help economic recovery.
The IATF has already decided to relax age restrictions from 15-65 to 10-65 in areas under Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ) starting February 1.
Lopez expressed concern that weak sales could lead to business closures and job losses if restrictions on market access are not eased.
He noted that even large fast-food chains are closing branches due to persistently weak sales, which are impacted by the limited market size.
Lopez pointed out that family expenditure constitutes a significant portion of commercial activity, and easing age limits can stimulate demand.
He recalled that gradual economic reopenings in the past did not result in significant surges in COVID-19 cases, indicating a balance between health and livelihood protection.
The Trade Secretary emphasized that minimum health protocols will remain in place to ensure a safe reopening and prevent a rise in COVID-19 cases.
🤖
This story was generated by AI to help you understand the key points. For more detailed coverage, please see the news articles from trusted media outlets below.
News Sources
See how different news organizations are covering this story. Below are the original articles from various Philippine news sources that contributed to this summary.
Individuals aged 10 to 65 years old will be allowed outdoors in areas under Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ) starting February 1, 2021.
Read more →
Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon M. Lopez will propose to the IATF to allow children aged 10 and above to go out, aiming to further stimulate economic activity.
Read more →