The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business

On May 16, a number of areas were placed under either General Community Quarantine (GCQ) or Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ) that granted some liberties to residents, allowing the reopening of select establishments, including malls, under certain protocols.

Spraying disinfectant on streets, as practised in some countries, does not eliminate the new coronavirus and even poses a health risk, the World Health Organization (WHO) warned. In a document on cleaning and disinfecting surfaces as part of the response to the virus, the WHO says spraying can be ineffective. “Spraying or fumigation of outdoor spaces, such as streets or …

Golf courses outside the National Capital Region (NCR) resumed operations May 16 to accommodate recreational golfers with the onset of new normal under general community quarantine (GCQ). Other courses are expected to follow soon.

Strict lockdown protocols may be reimposed after crowds who filled shopping malls allegedly ignored still prevailing quarantine rules last May 16, first day of easing of protocols, according to Malacanang.

The House of Representatives has recalled approval of a bill granting ABS-CBN provisional franchise to operate until October 31, 2020, paving the way for debate or amendments when the bill is reintroduced.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s success in containing coronavirus has driven an extraordinary popularity surge that has put the youthful leader on course for a landslide win in September’s national election.

A senior Olympics official warned that holding the postponed Tokyo Games next year faces “real problems”, with even a vaccine unlikely to stave off the threat of the coronavirus.

Uncertainty grips next year’s postponed Tokyo Olympics: Will there be fans or empty stadiums in 14 months? And how will thousands of athletes, staff, and technical officials travel, be housed, and stay safe amid COVID-19?

By Jinky Jorgio Akbayan Party firmly believes the DILG’s pursuit for constitutional reform is an unnecessary luxury amid the COVID-19 crisis. 

By Jinky Jorgio The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) announced today the arrest of two (2) individuals in Parañaque City for selling COVID-19 test kits which is prohibited under the law.