Philippines to try 'localized' lockdowns as businesses bleed

Metro Manila restrictions to be eased as daily infections hit record high

20210906 Philippines lockdown

A health worker vaccinates a public transport driver against COVID-19 at a drive-thru vaccination site in Quezon City, Metro Manila, on Aug. 13. © Reuters

CLIFF VENZON, Nikkei staff writer

MANILA -- The Philippines will pilot "localized lockdowns" in the capital starting Sept. 8, as the government eases COVID-19 restrictions amid clamor from businesses.

Metro Manila, home to 13 million people, has been under stricter community quarantine restrictions since Aug. 6 to fight the spread of the delta variant. The government has imposed stay-at-home orders, while businesses like salons and gyms have been forced to close and restaurants are limited to delivery service.

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