Metro Manila mayors thumb down holding of Christmas parties — MMDA’s Garcia

Mayors in Metro Manila are discouraging the conduct of Christmas parties amid the threat of COVID-19, according to Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) general manager Jojo Garcia.

At a public briefing on Tuesday, Garcia said the Metro Manila Council, consisting of 17 mayors, also discouraged the private sector to hold such events.

“Ang talagang pinagbabawal lang ang Christmas parties,” Garcia said.

“In-encourage natin ang private sector na wala na ring Christmas party kasi dito po talaga magsisimula ang transmission ng virus dahil nga may mass gathering,” he added.

Garcia advised the private sector to celebrate the season through organizing raffles, giving bonuses, or holding online meeting.

“Ang importante kasi ayaw na nating bumalik sa dati,” he said.

“Maganda po 'yung numero natin . Ang hirap naman na papayagan natin lahat ng mass gathering na ganyan, pagdating January balik na naman sa MECQ,” he added.

The Metro Manila mayors earlier recommended the extension of general community quarantine (GCQ) in their areas up to December to secure continuous improvement in their COVID-19 situation. — RSJ, GMA News