Metro Manila retail stores should reserve one square meter for each customer — DTI

Retail stores in Metro Manila should ensure that their shop is not too crowded while the community quarantine remains in effect to prevent the transmission of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), according to the guidelines released by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on Monday.

"Retail establishments shall be allowed to operate, provided that the number of people at any given time inside the selling area shall have a density of one person per square meter of unimpeded space," the memorandum circular signed by DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez on March 15 read.

Educating the employees, putting up signages, and setting up public address systems were some of the measures recommended to regulate the entry of customers to retail stores.

DTI and the local government units in Metro Manila will be enforcing the said rule on social distancing.

Further, the business managers are also reminded of regular sanitation of elevators, shopping carts, and baskets.

According to the DTI, all manufacturing, retail, and service establishments shall remain operational within the community quarantine period.

On the other hand, bars, concert halls, theaters, gambling facilities, and other establishments which gather large crowds shall be closed until April 14, 2020. — Dona Magsino/RSJ, GMA News