SINCE the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases has recommended the continued use of face shields in enclosed areas only, Malacañang said citizens may no longer use face shields outdoors, except when there is a crowd.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque Jr. said, however, that President Rodrigo Duterte will announce his decision during his public address on Monday evening, June 21, 2021.

"Sa mga nagtatanong, 'Kailangan pa ba ang face shield?' Ang malinaw ganito: hindi na po kinakailangan ng face shield sa labas kasi hindi naman po inapela 'yan ng IATF (Inter Agency Task Force). Ang inapela lang ng IATF 'yong pagsuot ng face shield sa loob," he said in a televised press briefing Monday.

Last week, Roque confirmed that Duterte had agreed to only require the wearing of face shields in hospitals.

The IATF, however, appealed and recommended that face shields be uses in enclosed/indoor spaces like hospitals, schools, workplaces, commercial establishments, public transport and terminals, and places of worship.

The Department of Health has cited studies showing that face shields provide another layer of protection against coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19). (SunStar Philippines)