NCR shifts to Alert Level 1: Everything you need to know

The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) officially placed the National Capital Region (NCR) under Alert Level 1 from March 1 to 15.

NCR is under Alert Level 1 from March 1 to 15

This means that COVID-19 restrictions in the said area have been eased until March 15. Establishments are allowed to operate at 100 percent capacity, given minimum public health standards. Intrazonal and interzonal travel, without regard to age and comorbidities, are permitted as well.

Moreover, the shift to a lower alert level could prompt the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to expand the number coding scheme to monitor traffic. As most of the COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, the government agency expects an increase in road users.

Here are the new IATF-approved guidelines for Alert Level 1 in NCR:

1. Face masks shall be worn at all times, whether outdoors or in indoor private or public establishments.

2. Face-to-face classes for primary education shall be subject to prior approval of the Office of the President.

3. All workplaces may operate at full 100 percent capacity, with the possibility for flexible works arrangements. Additionally, establishments are no longer required to set up isolation facilities within the workplace.

4. Off-site work shall be under such work arrangements subject to relevant rules and regulations issued by the Civil Service Commission and the Office of the President.

5. Public transportation shall be at full seating capacity. The use of plastic dividers shall not be required, including the use of Safe, Swift, and Smart Passage (S-PaSS). This is the same case for aviation, maritime, and rail public transportation.

6. The use of health declaration forms based on contact tracing shall not be required. However, the use of digital contract tracing such as the StaySafe.PH application is optional.

7. Individuals who are unvaccinated or have higher exposure risks are prioritized for testing. RT-PCR testing shall be recommended and prioritized for Priority Groups A2 (persons above 60 years old), A3 (persons with comorbidities), and Priority Group A1 or healthcare workers.

8. The Hospital Infection Prevention and Control Committees (HIPCC) may implement testing protocols in health facilities for health workers and patients based on their assessment of risk and benefit.

9. IATF Resolution No. 160 A/B shall be imposed for incoming international travelers, while the DOH Dept. Memo No. 2022-0013 shall be imposed for the general public and healthcare workers.

10. Mild to moderate confirmed cases shall be managed at the primary care level such as health centers, while severe and critical symptoms shall be managed in the appropriate health care facility.

11. For claiming relevant processes wherein the proofs of COVID-19 management are necessary, medical certification may suffice, provided it should include minimum required information.

12. In the case of reintegration, isolation can be discontinued upon completion of the recommended isolation period.

Individuals 18 years old and above will be required to present proof of full vaccination before entry to establishments such as, but not limited to the following:

- Religious gatherings, including wakes and funerals.

- Kiosks, commissaries, restaurants, and eateries. Outdoor dining won’t require full vaccination proof.

- Personal care establishments such as barbershops and salons, including home service options.

- Gyms and venues for exercise and sports.

- Cinemas or movie houses operating at full capacity.

- Social events such as parties, wedding receptions, family reunions, and bridal or baby showers.

- Karaoke bars, clubs, concert halls, and theaters.

- Hotels and other accommodation establishments.

- Venues for election-related events.

Take note, children ages 17 and below shall not be required to present proof of vaccination status.

An increase in traffic is expected by the MMDA

Furthermore, here is the list of areas placed under Alert Level 1 outside the NCR.

Stay up to date with the latest COVID-19 alert level status at Philkotse.com.