The reopening of the Manila Metropolitan Theater this June has been deferred to a later date, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts said Wednesday, citing adherence to prevailing community quarantine protocols.
The restored theater was supposed to launch on June 12, Independence Day, via the show "Lapulapu, Ang Datu ng Mactan."
"The NCCA’s MET prioritizes the safety and welfare of everyone involved in this production, and all its stakeholders," the commission said in a statement.
It assured the public too that the looming launch would be done in accordance with government COVID-19 protocols.
"The production and artistic teams, together with the artists, continue to work to provide you an unforgettable show, befitting this momentous event," it said.
READ: LOOK: Inside the Restored Manila Metropolitan Theater
While it faced many challenges and was stalled several times, restoration of the MET was started by the NCCA after purchasing the iconic structure from the Government Service Insurance System in 2015.
It is among the Philippines' declared National Historical Landmark and National Cultural Treasure.