Philippines: Malls, Business to Reopen in the Capital

The Philippines has allowed malls and more businesses in the capital to partially reopen on May 16 after a two-month lockdown that shrank its economy.

Restaurants with delivery and take-out options, bookstores, hardware and clothing shops located inside malls in Metro Manila can reopen with half of its workforce starting Saturday, presidential spokesman Harry Roque said.

Barber shops, salons and gyms would remain shut, and people are still required to stay at home. Trains and other forms of public transportation will remain unavailable.

Large-scale construction projects in the capital can resume, as well as manufacturing of drinks, tobacco, electronics and mineral and petroleum products, Roque said. Money exchanges and insurance companies are likewise allowed limited reopening.