Philippines Takes a Breather and Reopens Budgets
President Rodrigo Duterte gave the green light on May 13 to loosen some Covid‑19 shackles in Metro Manila and its surrounding provinces. After a laser‑focused clampdown that brought daily cases down from a peak of 15,310 to roughly 6,700, the country feels wig‑wig‑wrypressed enough to let people – and some food – back out.
What’s coming back?
- Religious gatherings and restaurant dining are approved for two weeks starting Saturday.
- Travel for non‑essential purposes remains off‑limits.
- Outdoor tourist spots can open, but only at 30% of their usual capacity.
In addition, gatherings for funerals of those who didn’t die from Covid will be allowed, but only up to 10% of a venue’s capacity. Duterte has asked the public to keep their religious get‑togethers toned down and stay keen on the situation.
Timeline & Check‑Ins
The status quo will be re‑evaluated by May 31. Meanwhile, heightened restrictions remain in place, and officials are warned that any slip‑ups in health protocols could lead to serious consequences.
Guarding Against New Threats
To stay safe from more contagious strains, arrivals from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bangladesh are temporarily barred. The Health Ministry detected two cases of an Indian variant that has triggered a full‑blown Covid crisis there.
In a nutshell: doors open, but heed the rules. Good luck, Philippines – keep dancing, keep drinking, keep safe!
