COVID-19 CRISIS

DTI finds safety protocols of some malls lacking

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is not satisfied with the safety protocols implemented by some malls in Metro Manila, as the region prepares for a possible transition to a general community quarantine after May 31.

DTI officials and personnel on Wednesday went to some malls to inspect the measures being implemented to avoid COVID-19 transmission, including the "no quarantine pass and face mask, no entry policy," temperature checks, and physical distancing.

"Meron pa silang mga kailangang gawin to make sure that they are ready by the time na mag-transition tayo into GCQ," said DTI Undersecretary Ruth Castelo said in Darlene Cay's report on Unang Balita on Thursday.

"'Yung markings nila sa floor, directional signs kailangan maayos. Nakita natin doon sa tatlong malls na napuntahan natin, hindi ganoon kadami 'yung marshalls ng mall," she added.

The DTI also observed that each mall implements its own safety measures.

In one establishment, shoes could be fitted by customers but will be sanitized if they are not purchased. Another mall however totally prohibits customers from trying on shoes that they intend to purchase.

Some malls are also following the "no return, no exchange" policy following a memo from the Quezon City government. However, DTI said the "no return, no exchange" policy is against the Consumer Act of the Philippines or Republic Act 3794.

"Hindi puwedeng hindi mangibabaw 'yon over the city ordinance. Take it up with DILG para maplantsa nilang mabuti," Castelo said.

The Quezon City LGU explained that they are only prioritizing the safety of customers.

"We will have to consider this for the new normal. We cannot afford to put into jeopardy the health of our consumers while at the same time, we do respect this general law that you mentioned," said Alberto Kimpo, Assistant City Administrator for Operations.

The malls have ensured that they are preparing for an influx of people once the general community quarantine is implemented in Metro Manila.

"They need to do it fast, this week, kasi kung next week assuming na mag-transition tayo into GCQ, dadagsa lalo ang tao sa Metro Manila. Kailangan ready sila, tapusin nila lahat this week 'yung mga protocols nila," said Castelo. --Jamil Santos/KBK, GMA News