Statement of MMDA Chairman Benhur Abalos on the news article which appeared at the Philippine Star today

The Metro Manila Council strongly opposes and have voted unanimously against the reopening of cinemas. In fact, it filed a motion for reconsideration with regards to the IATF position on the matter.

The Metro Manila mayors are united that now is not the right time to reopen the cinemas. However, we will support and respect the final decision of President Duterte on the matter.

In the event that the final decision would be to allow the reopening of the cinemas, it is the Metro Manila Mayors & not the MMDA, who would determine the seating capacity they will impose on cinemas within their jurisdiction. They have full discretion as to the guidelines. The 20 to 30 percent seating capacity mentioned in the article was just the suggestion of the economic team and not in any way the proposal of MMDA.

I hope this puts to rest the said issue.

Thank you.

 

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