THE e-commerce delivery of non-essential goods like appliances and clothing is now allowed under the extended enhanced community quarantine (ECQ).
Trade Secretary Ramon M. Lopez in a Laging Handa briefing on Saturday said the government is expanding the list of goods that may be delivered.
“Since nag-extend po ang ECQ we recognize that many of our kababayans would be needing more items beyond the essentials, so we are going to the ‘next essentials,’” he said.
He said hardware products, pet food, veterinary products, clothing, accessories, appliances, and housewares may now be delivered.
“Pati na rin po appliances dahil kung kailangan i-repair o palitan ang kanilang mga appliances ay ina-allow po sa delivery mode (This includes appliances because if people need to repair or replace their appliances, this will be allowed via delivery),” he said.
Mr. Lopez said e-commerce deliveries had been previously limited to food and disinfectants.
The ECQ in areas with a higher risk for coronavirus disease 2019 infection like Metro Manila has been extended up to May 15.
Mr. Lopez said last week that the trade department is studying the pricing of food delivery services after complaints from the public about the unavailability of cheaper services during demand surges. — Jenina P. Ibañez
