DILG tells LGUs: Ensure strict COVID-19 health rules in areas under Alert Levels 1, 2 (Sabong News)
Author
Robie de Guzman
Date
JANUARY 31 2022
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has directed all local government units (LGU) to ensure that health protocols and policies will be implemented as some areas shift to COVID-19 Alert Level 2 starting February.
In a statement, DILG Secretary Eduardo Año urged all provincial governors, city/municipal mayors, and punong barangays to “exercise sound judgment, undertake necessary actions, and ensure compliance to health and safety protocols” in the management of business industries and activities allowed under Alert Level 2.
Under Alert Level 2, establishments will be allowed to operate at 50 percent indoor venue capacity, and 70 percent outdoor venue capacities.
These include amusement parks and other recreational venues; in-person religious gatherings; licensure exams; dine-in services; personal care services; fitness studios and other venues for both contact and non-contact sports; film, music and television productions; cinemas; meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions (also referred to as MICE); social events; and tourist attractions.
Face-to-face classes and gatherings may resume under Alert Level 2, subject to further government guidelines.
The DILG said the resumption of cockpit operations and the return of traditional cockfighting (sabong) will also be allowed in areas under Alert Level 2 or lower, but LGUs should ensure that these will not become super spreader events amid the persisting threat of COVID-19.
“Kahit nasa Level 2 or 1 na kayo, mahigpit pa rin nating paalala na maging maingat, disiplinado, at alisto sa inyong pagbabalik-operasyon ng sabong. Hindi pa napapanahon upang tayo ay makampante, lalo’t mataas pa ang kaso ng Omicron,” Año said.
He stressed that only technology-based platforms, as well as cashless betting are allowed to prevent the physical exchange of cash anywhere in the cockpit.
All on-site workers/employees of these establishments should also be fully immunized, he added.
According to IATF Resolution No. 154, Series of 2021, operation of cockpits and traditional cockfighting shall be allowed in areas under Alert Level 2, provided that there is no objection from the LGUs where the activity may take place and subject to the strict observance of protocols.
“We are not yet out of the woods and we do not encourage mass gatherings which could be super spreader events. Make sure you exercise extra caution before entering a cockpit or participating in cockfighting activities,” Año said.
The DILG chief directed local police officers to assist in the monitoring and inspection of cockpit arenas.
“Titiyakin ng ating mga kapulisan at ng mga barangay na nasusunod ang lahat ng mga nakasaad na guidelines para sa muling pagbubukas ng mga sabungan sa Alert Level 2 areas,” Año said.
He warned that failure to comply with the guidelines shall result in automatic closure of the cockpits and concerned officials and employees shall be dealt with in accordance with pertinent laws, rules, and regulations.
