MISSING THE BIG SCREEN? CINEMAS ARE BACK!
What movie will you first watch now that cinemas are back, ka-tambay?
Banner art by Angelica Flores Juan
Moviegoing is among some of the activities we greatly missed during the past year and especially during this occasion. We can again watch our anticipated blockbusters in crystal-clear big screens with crisp surround sound and comfy reclining seats. Finally, cinemas reopened last November 10.
In line with the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) approving the lowering of the Alert Level to 3 in Metro Manila last 13th of October, most businesses would now be allowed to open and operate once more and this include movie theatres. This was also confirmed by the Cinema Exhibitors Association of the Philippines (CEAP).
Some of the cinemas which reopened are Gateway CinePlex and AliMall Cinemas. Operations are not exactly ‘back to normal’ though. These theatres still follow both the IATF’s guidelines as well as the CEAP’s “Sa Sine Safe Ka” set of protocols.
Like most establishments operating under the current setup, there must be hand sanitizers and temperature checkers at entrance points and employees must follow the current health protocols. The theatres—which shall only house at least 30% of its capacity—will be cleaned thoroughly between every screening.
It is advised that the buying of movie tickets be done through contactless and cashless transactions. Moviegoers must be fully vaccinated and shall carry with them their vaccination cards. They must also wear the appropriate face coverings and observe social distancing by sitting two seats apart.
No sipping sodas and snacking on popcorn yet since eating in the cinema is currently prohibited.
If planning to go to the cinemas soon, make sure that you are well enough to do so and be informed of these rules. To ensure that the experience remains safe and enjoyable for everyone it is best that those who wish to go to the movies be responsible in doing so!
