Where’s the fun in gatherings when you risk spreading the virus? Here are the COVID-19 protocols you need to start following.

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Things may seem to be going back to normal, but we can’t ignore the fact that the virus is still out there. Despite a lot of improvements since the pandemic started, there are still so many realities we have to face. First, the vaccine isn’t readily available for everyone. Second, there may be a new variant of the coronavirus. Third, the number of cases in the Philippines has picked up.

As we approach a year of quarantine, it’s understandable why many would like to celebrate momentous events. It goes against human nature to isolate, but it’s the sacrifice we should all be willing to make during such troubling times. So, in case you need a reminder, here are the COVID-19 protocols we need to follow during the pandemic.

According to the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases of the Philippines, New Normal refers to the emerging behaviors, situations, and minimum public health standards that will be institutionalized in common or routine practices and remain even after the pandemic while the disease is not totally eradicated through means such as widespread immunization. These include actions that will become second nature to the general public as well as policies such as bans on large gatherings that will continue to remain in force.

The following rules apply for areas placed under General Community Quarantine:

• Personal gatherings in private properties shall be limited to a maximum of 10 attendees. Provided, that the minimum public health standards such as the wearing of masks and the maintenance of social distancing protocols, and no sharing of food and beverages, are observed.

• Only hotels or accommodation establishments with valid DOT Accreditation shall be allowed to accommodate guests and clients for legitimate purposes under a state of public health emergency.

• Mass gatherings such as but not limited to, movie screenings, concerts, sporting events, and other entertainment activities, religious services, and work conferences shall be allowed provided that participants shall be limited to fifty percent (50%) of the seating or venue capacity.

• Conduct of curricular and co-curricular activities involving gatherings such as science fairs, showcase of portfolios, trade fairs, school sports, campus journalism, festival of talents, job fairs, and other similar activities is cancelled, except those conducted online.

• Religious gatherings in areas under General Community Quarantine shall be allowed up to thirty percent (30%) of the seating capacity.