THE OPERATOR of Vista Malls has joined similar businesses in opening over the weekend as the government relaxed quarantine measures to jumpstart the economy.
In a statement Sunday, Villar-led Vistamalls, Inc. said it had opened 20 Vista Malls last Saturday and will be opening another one today, Vista Mall Taguig.
While operations have resumed, Vista Malls are still on shortened mall hours and only allow limited services and shops as they continue observing safety protocols against the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
Other facilities such as Vista Cinemas, play areas and rest areas will remain closed as ordered by the government.
“Vista Mall’s priority is to continue serving the essential needs of its communities while protecting everyone from the potential spread of the virus,” it said.
Mall goers are required to go through temperature scanning upon entry, and only those with body temperature below 37.5 degrees Celsius will be allowed inside. Hand and foot sanitation through alcohol and foot bath will also be part of the procedure.
Once inside, wearing of face masks is required at all times. Each person must observe physical distancing by keeping at least two meters from one another.
For tight spaces such as elevators and escalators, floor stickers have been mounted to guide traffic and a three-step rule is in place to set per-rider distance.
Vista Malls also promised to do regular disinfection of common areas and ultraviolet sterilization of high-touch spots such as handrails.
“Vista Mall reopening its doors is a step towards facing the new normal. With new paths being forged in navigating this new reality, Vista Mall remains committed to continue providing unparalleled service to its customers, business partners, and tenants,” it said.
Other malls that have resumed operations while Metro Manila and parts of the country transition to a modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) are Megaworld Corp., Robinsons Malls and SM Supermalls.
MECQ in Metro Manila is in place from May 16 to May 31. — Denise A. Valdez
