Manila casinos close until April 4 as Covid-19 cases rise

Metro Manila casinos have voluntarily closed their doors as Covid-19 cases in The Philippines continue to rise.

The Philippines.- Casinos in Metro Manila have decided to close their doors until at least April 4 to show solidarity with efforts to reduce a recent spike in Covid-19 cases.

The government announced new restrictions for Metro Manila last week, but Covid-19 cases continue to rise.

The government had insisted that the new measures did not represent a new lockdown, but casino operators decided to temporarily suspend their activities “in solidarity with all efforts to curb the rise of Covid-19 cases.”

Philippine casino resort City of Dreams Manila said: “Hospitality, gaming and retail operations are closed temporarily until April 4 for the duration of the Enhanced Community Quarantine in Metro Manila and neighbouring provinces.”

Solaire Resort and Casino, promoted by Bloomberry Resorts Corp, posted the following message on their website: “In compliance with the enhanced community quarantine implemented by the government, Solaire is not operational at this time.”

The Philippines Department of Health has reported 9,475 new cases of Covid-19 in 24 hours.

Metro Manila measures to contain Covid-19

Measures taken by the government include night-time curfews from 6pm to 5am. Gatherings of more than 10 people outside are not allowed, and non-household members cannot gather indoors.

Diners are not allowed to eat in restaurants, although take-out and delivery services can continue.

Foreign visitors are not be allowed to enter the Philippines until April 19. Only credited officials of foreign governments and Filipino workers returning from overseas are allowed to enter.