IATF allows home religious activities under MECQ

Malacañang announced that home religious activities and non-contact sports are allowed in areas under modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) starting May 16.

“Pwede na rin pong magbigay ng home religious services, pansin niyo, home religious services – ang mga pari, imam, rabbi at pang religious ministers (Priests, imams, rabbis and other religious ministers may conduct home religious services),” Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said.

Roque emphasized that church officials providing home services must observe proper health protocols, including the wearing of face masks, observing social distancing and the checking of body temperature.

Roque also said employment activities for recruitment and placement activities are also allowed under MECQ areas provided that operation is only at 50 percent capacity.

Firearms and ammunition training establishments are also allowed to operate in MECQ areas and are subject to strict regulations of the Firearms and Explosives Office of the Philippine National Police.  

Roque reminded the public to remain vigilant against COVID-19 and said it is still not safe to go outside because of the health risks.

The Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) has placed the National Capital Region (NCR), Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Zambales, Angeles City and Laguna under MECQ.