HEADS UP: All the Alert Level 2 Updates You Need Know (Nov. 8)

Here’s a Heads Up from reportr on news you need to know today.

ALERT LEVEL 2 IN METRO MANILA

• Metro Manila is now under Alert Level 2, the second lowest of the five-tier COVID-19 alert system, which means businesses and establishments can operate at higher capacities.
• Children in Metro Manila can now go out for leisure and school under Alert Level 2.
• Also, minors and senior citizens in the capital region can now take public transportation.
• Colleges and universities in Metro Manila can hold limited face-to-face classes under the lower alert level.
• Weekday operating hours of Metro Manila malls will also be adjusted starting Nov. 15 in anticipation of the Christmas rush.

COVID NEWS

• Ayala Corp’s health unit is planning to sell the world’s first anti-COVID pill in the Philippines.
• Pfizer claimed that its anti-COVID drug was 89% effective against severe cases of the disease.
• The Department of Health supports the mandatory vaccination of frontliners and vulnerable populations against COVID-19 to fast-track the delivery of vaccine doses.

LIFE KIT

• Why do Filipinos still collect planner stickers like the ones from Starbucks when there’s not much to plan due to the pandemic? Here’s an explanation from a psychologist.

NEWS YOU NEED TO KNOW

• President Rodrigo Duterte said political dynasties are here to stay, unless the Constitution changes or the way Filipinos view political clans.
• The President also insisted that he would not allow himself to be tried by the International Criminal Court, saying that he would rather be jailed in Muntinlupa.
• The Department of Education said it is investigating a viral Tiktok video wherein a teacher appeared to suggest "potential child abuse.”
• Protesters staged a worldwide rally to demand climate action as COP26 took place in Glasgow.
• U.S. borders will reopen today, and airlines are scrambling to meet the surge in passengers.