DTI to malls: Follow GCQ guidelines

CEBU, Philippines — Limited mall operations will be allowed in areas placed under general community quarantine (GCQ).

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) made the reminder as Cebu City transitions to GCQ from enhanced community quarantine starting Monday, June 1.

DTI said mall operators must strictly comply with the operational guidelines stipulated in DTI Memorandum Circular 20-21.

The guidelines include the establishment and strong measures in monitoring the foot traffic, and enforcing safe distancing inside the shopping center—by limiting the number of people inside the mall or inside an individual store, at any given time to a density of not more than one person or two square meters.

Shoppers with special needs like senior citizens, persons with disabilities and pregnant women are allowed only one companion.

To prevent people from loitering inside malls, air conditioning must be set at 26 degrees while free wifi must be removed.

Mall operators are also required to assign dedicated personnel to regulate foot traffic in high density areas like comfort rooms, and supermarkets, among others.

Under the guidelines, conducting sales events, marketing events and other promotions are strictly prohibited to avoid throng of shoppers.

Operators are also required to designate a centralized pick-up location for stores with delivery and pick-up services.  KQD (FREEMAN)