QUEZON CITY (PIA) – Two years since the Philippines had strict restrictions , many businesses particularly micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises were affected due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

As the country transitions to Alert Level 1, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) expects a full momentum on the country’s economic growth.

In President Rodrigo Duterte’s Talk to the People on Monday, DTI Sec. Ramon Lopez reiterated that the transition to Alert Level 1 will lessen economic restrictions allowing all businesses to operate in full capacity.

Lopez added physical distancing is lifted since businesses are allowed to operate in 100% capacity.

Proof of vaccination is still required for 18 years old and above.

Meanwhile, the DTI encourages establishments to implement on-site work instead of work-from-home setup.

“We will encourage more on-site presence. Mas maraming papasok sa opisina, resumption of many events that will stimulate also ‘yung spending. Kasi ‘pag lumalabas ‘yung mga tao, mas marami pang puwedeng gastusan papunta at pauwi,”Lopez said.

The Trade Secretary stated that unemployment rate will be lessened since the operational capacity of businesses and establishments have already been maximized.

The DTI expects full recovery of the country’s GDP in 2022 allowing to hit back the 5.9% full year growth of GDP in 2019. (SBB/PIA-IDPD)