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There's no question that the pandemic has accelerated the boom of movie streaming platforms.

Locally, we've seen the rise of the likes of MOOV and Upstream.ph, and other dedicated websites designed for viewers to consume movies 24/7.

Even film studios have unloaded some of their catalogs on YouTube to entertain the public while boosting subscriptions.

But while there's convenience in this, there are still many among us who love and miss the intimate experience of watching movies on the big screen.

Speaking of that, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has some good news for cinema fans around Metro Manila.

Starting this Friday, March 5, movie houses located in areas under general community quarantine (GCQ) will be allowed to operate up to 25 percent capacity, while cinema spaces covered by modified general community quarantine (MGCQ) can operate up to 50% capacity.

Health protocols will still be in full effect and movie houses are instructed to adhere to government policies to protect moviegoers and cinema employees.

Here are the rules moviegoers must follow inside the cinema premises:

1. Moviegoers are required to wear face masks at all times while inside the cinema.

2. Eating and drinking are strictly prohibited inside the cinema.

3. Employees and moviegoers need to scan the StaySafe PH QR code for contact tracing. Manual contact tracing will be required for patrons without smartphones.

4. At least one-meter physical distancing on all sides must be observed by moviegoers.

5. Cinema operators must make sure that physical distancing is observed in queuing areas at all times. Online reservation is highly advised to avoid long lines.

6. Cinema staff should escort moviegoers to their seats to check physical distancing.

7. Private screenings are allowed and must follow physical distancing and capacity requirements set by DTI.

8. Indoor air ventilation must follow applicable standards to ensure health safety.

9. Entry and exit must follow “one-way traffic flow.”

10. Management must make sure that the cinema is disinfected at every screening.

11. Moviegoers are advised to remain seated and are prohibited from moving around unnecessarily inside the cinema.

12. Conversations should be maintained at the barest minimum.

13. Cinema restrooms should be clean and with no trash.

14. Cinema employees are required to wear PPE, face masks, and face shields for their protection and for the safety of moviegoers.