AFTER being one of the few remaining states in Southeast Asia to have a strict face mask mandate, the Philippines is now easing its face mask rule.
On September 12, 2022, MalacaƱang issued Executive Order No. 3, S. 2022, allowing the voluntary wearing of face masks in outdoor settings.
According to the EO, the Inter-agency Task For (IATF) through Resolution No. 1 (S. 2022) has recommended easing the face mask mandate in the country.
The EO states that among the reasons for easing the face mask mandate is the high vaccination rate in the country and better Covid-19 situation.
As of September 6, 2022, 72 million individuals in the Philippines, or 93 percent of the target population are already fully vaccinated, while 18 million, or 23 percent of the target population already have their booster doses.
With the improved Covid-19 situation, 88 of the 121 provinces, highly-urbanized cities, and independent cities, and 696 component cities and municipalities are under alert level 1.
Section 1 of the EO states that "voluntary wearing of face masks in open spaces and non-crowded outdoor areas with good ventilation, is hereby allowed."
However, those who are unvaccinated, senior citizens, and immunocompromised individuals "are highly encouraged to wear their face mask."
To manage Covid-19 cases, the minimum public health standards (MPHS) will still be implemented "consistent with the principles of shared accountability, evidence-based decision making, socioeconomic equity, and rights-based approach."
"The DOH and the IATF may submit recommendations for further adjustments in the MPHS, including the liberalization of indoor mask requirements, should be indicators for monitoring the status of Covid-19," the EO states.
In Davao City, City Health Office (CHO) head Dr. Ashley Lopez in a text message to SunStar Davao said the city government will allow the voluntary wearing of face masks outdoors.
"Mayor (Baste Duterte) has already ordered to comply with the EO pending MPHS amendment from IATF. Existing ordinances related to this will be put on hold. We will allow the optional wearing of facemasks outdoors indicated in the provisions of the EO 3," Lopez said.
The easing of the face mask rule is another step forward to a post-Covid-19 society. However, we should be reminded to continue to observe MPHS, especially indoors or in places where there is no proper ventilation.
Continue to stay safe Dabawenyos.