Social distancing practiced by some, disregarded by others in Metro Manila

The first day of community quarantine took effect in Metro Manila on Sunday to prevent the further spread of COVID-19, with social distancing as part of the measures. Some people observed it, while others did not.

At a popular mall in Quezon City, there were fewer customers on Sunday.

Sales workers outnumbered customers at some sections of the department store. Other areas had no customers at all.

Restaurants and coffee shops had very few customers while others only had empty seats. The food court area which was always packed especially on weekends was obviously less crowded.

The parking area also had lots of vacant spaces which was unusual on a weekend.

It was a different scenario in residential areas, however. 

Although residents were encouraged to stay indoors to prevent the spread of COVID-19, adults and children alike interacted closely.

In Barangay South Triangle in Quezon City, several groups of children were seen outdoors while playing together. Some were grouped in circles while others were playing tumbang preso, a traditional Filipino game.

When asked why children were allowed outdoors, a parent said, "Gusto nila maglaro po, ma'm. E ano pong magagawa namin, masaya naman sila."

Another parent said, "Kailangan din talaga ng hangin. Kung nasa loob lang sila ng bahay baka lalo silang magkasakit."
 
In Barangay Pinyahan, children were seen picking fruits from a tree while others were seen playing tag.

Meanwhile, some adults strolled around while Belen Pamaso and Dolly de Leon hung around in the neighborhood to catch up on each other's lives.

"Napabili po ako ng ilalagay sa monggong dahon. E nakita ko si mare. Nag-usap lang kami. Lagi kami 'di nagkikita kasi lagi kami naghahanapbuhay," Pamaso said.

De Leon said it's almost impossible for them to refrain from socializing given their proximity to each other. "Siyempre magkakapitbahay po kami. 'Di mo maiwasan 'di makipagkuwentuhan," she said.

Authorities have been advising people to stay home and prohibited mass gatherings during the community quarantine which will last until April 14.

The Department of Trade and Industry issued a memorandum circular ordering mall operations to be limited to those offering basic necessities: groceries and supermarkets, banks, pharmacies, health clinics, bookstores, hardware stores, and food stalls which provide take out and delivery only.

Several malls have already issued announcements regarding their temporary closure. —KG, GMA News