A reduction in COVID-19 cases has led to several amendments to the protocols instituted by the National Emergency Management Advisory Council (NEMAC).
In an update to the nation on the pandemic response, officials announced new protocols to take effect on Dec. 15 through to Jan. 11, focused on a subtle reduction in restrictions. These include special permissions for Christmas and social gatherings, dine-in permissions at restaurants and bars, and extended hours for business operations and commercial activities now up to 11 p.m.
Banks, credit unions and other services are encouraged to increase working hours and teller numbers where possible, to reduce excessive lines while ensuring protocol adoption during the holiday season. Slaughterhouses and butchers can remain open and employers are also encouraged to institute shopping days in order to reduce long lines and the Christmas shopping rush.
Restaurants and bars will be allowed to operate up to 11 p.m. Patrons will be permitted to dine-in at these establishments. Social gatherings for the holiday season are restricted to 25 individuals, however authorities strongly discourage parties. No allowance is given for mass gatherings or social events of any kind, and loud music permits for the four-week period.
Religious institutions will also be permitted to carry out services according to the square footage of their houses of worship and the maximum number of religious rites attendees has been increased for this period. Non-contact sports will now be permitted, and gyms are allowed to resume operations.
The reduced COVID-19 restrictions are guided by a recent decrease in cases. Health officials advise continued adherence to the protocols and infection prevention measures to maintain the gains made going into the New Year.