Manila LGU offers free swab tests to cinema workers

As the national government plans to reopen movie houses, the Manila government will provide free swab tests to cinema workers, its public information office said on Monday.

In a Facebook post, Manila PIO said  the free COVID-19 test is in light of the decision of the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases to allow cinemas in  general community quarantine areas.

"We will extend assistance. Those who want to work, you have to follow this simple guidelines, this is also for their own good and their community," Manila Mayor  Isko Moreno said.

Moreno added that swab testing will be a requirement  for cinema workers before the local government will allow malls to reopen cinemas.

"Hindi ko bubuksan ang cinema hangga't di nate-test ang workers," he said.

Free swab tests will be provided to janitors, security guards, tellers, ushers porters, ticket tellers, and snack bar attendants.

While saying that reopening of cinemas would result in more traffic of people, Moreno said it will benefit the businesses that were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

In line with this, he asked mall managers to present their preparations in compliance with the national government’s health protocols.

The Manila PIO said physical distancing and the wearing of face masks will be observed inside the cinemas in the city.

"Ang assurance ko sa inyo ay the city is aggressive. You have the support of the city, I agree with the opening of the cinema because I believe in you, that you are a responsible citizens," Moreno said.

Earlier in the day, Malacañang said the reopening of cinemas in areas under general community quarantine would only take place next month pending the release of guidelines on COVID-19 safety protocols.

Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque made the announcement a day after Metro Manila mayors expressed apprehension over the COVID-19 task force’s decision to allow the reopening beginning on Monday, citing higher risk of the spread of the virus in enclosed spaces. — Joviland Rita/RSJ, GMA News