Major mall operators in Metro Manila decided to defer the opening of their cinemas even if the government already allowed them to do so starting March 5, adding they will wait for the approval of the local government units where they operate.
The Department of Trade and Industry has issued Memorandum Circular No. 21-08 allowing cinemas in areas under general community quarantine (GCQ) to reopen at 25% capacity.
Moviegoers are not allowed to eat and drink inside cinemas. Face masks must be worn at all times.
SM Supermalls, the operator of SM Cinemas, is delaying the reopening of its movie houses.
“SM Cinemas will work closely with the LGUs on our reopening. We are prepared to open with strict safety standards for all customers. We will follow the LGU’s seat gap and capacity policies, keep face masks and shields on at all times, and deep cleaning done after every screening,” said Steven Tan, president of SM Supermalls.
Ayala Malls’ cinemas would not reopen pending the LGUs’ approval.
“In as much as we do want to reopen our Cinemas to welcome the movie-going public once again, we regret that we will not be able to do just yet as we are still waiting for the approval of the LGUs where Ayala Malls Cinemas are located. Until such time we receive formal advice from the City Mayors, our cinemas shall remain closed,” said Charmaine Bauzon, Cinemas head of Ayala Malls.
Malls in GCQ areas defer reopening of cinemas
Robinsons Malls would not also reopen its movie houses on Friday, March 5.
“We will follow DOH-IATF (Department of Health-Inter-Agency Task Force) guidelines and final LGU approval for cinema operations,” it said.
The Araneta City management also said it is waiting for guidelines from and approval of the Quezon City government.
“But we have already put in place a safety protocol inside our cinemas in preparation for our reopening,” it said.
An infectious disease expert warns of the dangers of opening cinemas in the midst of an ongoing pandemic.
Dr. Rontgene Solante explained that ventilation can increase the risk, especially when viewers eat and talk in an enclosed area.
cinemasa medium that disseminates moving picturesMore (Definitions, Synonyms, Translation)