Mall operators defer reopening of cinemas in GCQ areas

While the government allowed movie houses to reopen in areas under general community quarantine (GCQ), such as Metro Manila, on March 5, the country’s largest mall operators decided not to do so pending approval from local government units where they operate.

To recall, the Department of Trade and Industry has issued Memorandum Circular No. 21-08 which allows cinemas to reopen in GCQ areas, albeit at 25% venue capacity.

Eating and drinking are not allowed inside movie house and face masks must be worn at all times.

Metro Manila mayors earlier expressed apprehension over the COVID-19 task force’s decision to allow the reopening of cinemas beginning February 15, citing higher risk of the spread of the virus in enclosed spaces.

The mayors' call prompted the Palace to move the reopening of cinemas in GCQ areas to March.

SM Supermalls, which also operates SM Cinemas, is deferring the reopening of its movie houses.

“SM Cinemas will work closely with the LGUs  on our reopening. We are prepared to open with strict safety standards for all customers. We will follow the LGU's seat gap and capacity policies, keep face masks and shields on at all times, and deep cleaning done after every screening,” said Steven Tan, president of SM Supermalls.

Ayala Malls, likewise, said it will not reopen while waiting for LGUs’ approval.

“In as much as we do want to reopen our Cinemas to welcome the movie-going public once again, we regret that we will not be able to do just yet as we are still waiting for the approval of the LGUs where Ayala Malls Cinemas are located. Until such time we receive formal advice from the City Mayors, our cinemas shall remain closed,” said Charmaine Bauzon, Cinemas head of Ayala Malls.

Robinsons Malls also said it is not yet opening Friday, March 5.

“We will follow DOH-IATF (Department of Health-Inter-Agency Task Force) guidelines and final LGU approval for cinema operations,” it said.

The Araneta City management also announced it waiting for guidelines from and approval of the Quezon City government.

“But we have already put in place a safety protocol inside our cinemas in preparation for our reopening,” it said.—AOL, GMA News