Philippines Keeps Loose Virus Curbs in Capital Region

(Bloomberg) -- The Philippines is keeping its loose coronavirus restrictions in the Manila capital region until Nov. 30 as daily cases decline and vaccination picks up.

The capital, which accounts for a third of economic output, will remain under Alert Level 2, the second-lowest under a five-tiered system, presidential spokesman Harry Roque said in a statement on Saturday. Provinces near Metro Manila will also be under the same level.

Relaxed restrictions on public movement have been in placed since Nov. 5, and minors have been allowed in indoor establishments. Under Alert Level 2, indoor restaurants, gyms and cinemas can operate at half capacity, while outdoor establishments can open at 70% capacity.

The Philippines on Saturday reported 1,997 new Covid-19 cases and 238 deaths. It has 29,382 active cases, of which about 14% are severe and critical. 

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