Christmastime under the “new normal” may look vastly different, but some things remain the same—like Christmas shopping. While most stores have gone online, most malls are still gearing up for the holiday rush, which will undoubtedly bring hordes of shoppers in. Though pandemic restrictions may have eased, that doesn’t mean your kids can tag along while you’re shopping for presents.

On Dec. 3, Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) general manager Jojo Garcia announced that minors are still banned from entering malls during general community quarantine (GCQ).

JUST IN: All NCR mayors will not allow minors to go to shopping malls, MMDA General Manager Jojo Garcia says. | @ConsINQ pic.twitter.com/GRYJz6zIYF

— Inquirer (@inquirerdotnet) December 3, 2020

After consulting the Philippine Pediatric Society (PPS), Metro Manila mayors unanimously voted against letting minors inside these establishments, 17-0.

There are some exceptions, though.

Garcia said minors may be allowed to enter malls, as long as it’s for medical check-ups in mall-based clinics. He reiterated that minors are only allowed to leave their homes for essential services and exercise. He added that they are not allowed to attend Simbang Gabi masses either under GCQ.

MMDA General Manager Garcia says minors may be allowed in malls for essentials, such as going for check ups in the medical clinics there. | @LeilasINQ

— Inquirer (@inquirerdotnet) December 3, 2020

Minors and their parents who violate these rules are up for sanctions based on what their local government units decide.

In Manila, 34 parents and guardians were arrested for their wards’ quarantine violations back in July. The children were rescued by the Manila Department of Social Welfare (MDSW).

Header image courtesy of Victor Xok on Unsplash

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