However, casinos will remain closed to the public, although this lockdown easing gives properties hope of reopening moving forward.

The changes will come into effect on August 19 and are scheduled to last until August 31 to monitor the situation.

The affected communities include Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, Rizal and Metro Manila, where some of the well-known Philippine casinos are located.

While the spread of the coronavirus within the country remains on the higher side, the President said: “We want to ensure the safety of our people. However, some sectors, especially the MSMEs (micro, small and medium enterprises) are barely surviving.”

The reopening of businesses should benefit several industries, with the exception of mass gatherings. 

Currently it is unknown if trial runs, which allow casinos to operate at restricted capacity to select guests, will be reinstated.

According to financial results from operators, even restricted operations brought in some revenue, as reported by Bloomberry’s Solaire and Resorts World Manila.

Previously, the trial runs were permitted since June and cancelled on August 4, when health regulations tightened.