The National Capital Region (NCR) along with 38 other areas will be placed under Alert Level 1 from March 1 to 15, 2022. This is after the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Disease (IATF) approved the amended guidelines for the most lenient COVID-19 Alert Level status.
Metro Manila eases to Alert Level 1 starting March 1 [Photo: DOTr]
Among the new guidelines approved by the IATF is the increase in passenger capacity in public transportation. The IATF is now allowing full or 100 percent seating capacity in public utility vehicles (PUVs) under Alert Level 1. This has also been confirmed by Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles.
However, the PUV passenger capacity will adjust if it is traveling between an area with a higher alert level classification. In such a scenario, the allowed passenger capacity of the area with the higher alert level shall be implemented.
The use of plastic barriers or dividers, which are typically seen in jeepneys and buses, is also no longer required under Alert Level 1. The IATF added that the Safe, Swift, and Smart Passage (S-PaSS) travel management system is also no longer required for interzonal travel to areas under Alert Level 1.
Meanwhile, the passenger capacity will be at 100 percent for aviation, maritime, and rail public transport operating in and out of areas under Alert Level 1.
Everyone should remain vigilant despite the less stringent alert level status
As the public transport shifts to having full seating passenger capacity, the IATF is reminding individuals that wearing well-fitted face masks shall be worn at all times. The only exception is when eating and drinking or participating in team and individual sports in venues with proper ventilation.
In addition, the number coding scheme could also be expanded now that public transport is allowed to have full passenger seating capacity. The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) previously said that it is looking at the possibility of expanding the number coding scheme as quarantine restrictions or alert levels ease.
MMDA considers implementing number coding during morning rush hour
The MMDA is studying whether it should also implement the number coding during morning rush hour, which is from 7:00 a.m. to 9 a.m. Currently, the Unified Vehicular Volume Reduction Program (UVVRP) runs from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. on weekdays, covering private vehicles.
Read more of the latest updates on COVID-19 Alert Levels in Philkotse.
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