The University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman’s Academic Oval is a haven for fitness enthusiasts. Its wide-open spaces and tree-lined paths spanning over two kilometers offer fresh air, something we sorely miss in isolation.
So after closing the Oval to the public on Jan. 23 due to the existence of new COVID-19 variants and a rise in new cases, the university is re-opening its public spaces starting Feb. 15.
But while citing the need for public spaces for people’s mental and physical well-being, UP said it is also serious in its implementation and observance of health protocols within campus grounds.
In a Facebook post, the university reminded the public planning to return to the campus’ open spaces to strictly abide by the following health guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other possible ailments:
- Properly wear face masks and face shields at all times
- Carry alcohol or sanitizers at all times
- Observe physical distancing of at least one meter
- Observe the No Eating and No Littering policies on public grounds
- If in a group, make sure that you are no more than 10 persons
- Follow the designated bike routes. Training and racing are strictly prohibited
- Only individuals aged 15 to 65 (provided they do not belong to the vulnerable group or those with co-morbidities) are allowed to use the Academic Oval and other open spaces for any exercise activity
- Keep the Academic Oval and other open spaces clean
The UP Diliman administration also said that it has enlisted the support of the Barangay UP Campus COVID-19 Task Force to help monitor compliance with minimum health protocols.