Christmas shoppers crowd Manila's Divisoria amid COVID-19

Despite the threat of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), some Filipinos still decided to flock to Manila's famous commercial center, Divisoria, for their annual Christmas shopping.

According to Mariz Umali’s report on “24 Oras,” the merchant stalls were built in rows while shoppers walked side by side in the area.

While most of the shoppers wore facemasks and face shields, others were not wearing them properly - with some pulling down their masks or placing their face shields on their heads while checking out items

Despite this, barangay personnel kept reminding the public to maintain social distancing and to wear their face masks and face shields.

The barangay was also in coordination with police authorities in implementing health protocols and warning the public against thieves.

“Isa pa ‘yan sa malaking problema ng barangay kasi ‘yung social distancing hindi, parang hindi pinakikinggan ng mga mamimili,” Justito Altar, barangay OIC, said.

"Pero lahat po gagawin, lahat po gagawin ng barangay, tungkol doon sa social distancing na maipatupad natin ng maayos,” he added. -Joahna Lei Casilao/MDM, GMA News