A TOP Palace official said the decision of the government to allow kids aged five and above to go out of their homes has something to do with promoting their mental health.
Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, in an online press briefing, underscored the need for the government to also consider the well-being of children even under an extreme condition like the pandemic.
He added that children should somehow be able to go out to avoid lockdown fatigue.
He, however, reiterated that allowing children aged five and above outdoors does not necessarily mean they could go on mall strolling, adding that the new guideline applies only to areas classified under general quarantine area and modified GCQ. He added that the guideline does not apply to areas under GCQ with heightened restrictions.
“Cause benefit analysis po ito kahit sino ikulong mo sa bahay ng mahigit isang taon ay magkakaroon po yan ng epekto sa mental health kaya nga po ang ating dahilan kung bakit pinayagan ang limitadong lumabas sa mga outdoor areas ay dahil kinakailangang i-promote ang well-being ng mga bata lalo na ang kanilang mental health,” Roque said.
He also claimed that the decision to allow kids outdoors was based on a recommendation by experts whom he claimed have extensively done scientific studies in child behavior.
However, he admits that the possibility of being infected with the deadly virus, specifically the Delta variant, remains high and as such would require utmost caution by adults accompanying children outside of their homes. Roque also reminded strict observance of the minimum health standards.
“At uulitin ko po… sa mga open areas lang po yan,” the Palace spokesperson further averred.
(PHOTO CREDIT: pna.gov.ph)