MMDA recommends malls, other establishments to close for a month

March 14, 2020

The Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) recommended for temporary closure of malls and other establishments as part of the implemented curfew due to increasing cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). 

MMDA General Manager Jojo Garcia, in a press briefing on Saturday, said they have asked for malls to be "totally closed" for one month to slow down the movement of people in Metro Manila. 

"We requested for malls if they can close down except its supermarkets, groceries, banks, pharmacies and other essential establishments," Garcia explained. 

The suggestion came after the MMDA along with the Philippine National Police (PNP), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and other local government units approved the implementation of an 8 pm to 5 am curfew effective until April 14. 

Garcia added that entertainment establishments, such as movie houses or cinemas and bars will also unavailable for the public. Cristina Eloisa Baclig/DMS