FIVE months since voluntary wearing of face mask has been imposed in the Philippines, Filipinos have learned the value of wearing face masks to avoid illnesses.

This was the observation of an infectious disease expert as coronavirus disease (Covid-19) cases remained low over the past months.

"Filipinos have become more knowledgeable and selective on when they should wear their masks or not," said Dr. Edsel Salvaña in a televised public briefing.

"Filipinos have really embraced mask-wearing whether it’s for Covid-19 or not. People now know the benefits of using it," he added.

He said mask wearing has shown its benefits considering public mobility has gone to the pre-pandemic levels while Covid-19 cases have remained low.

"People really wear masks when they think that their risk is a little higher, and I think that this will continue," said Salvaña.

He also stressed that wearing face masks can help prevent not just Covid-19 but other diseases.

"We all know now that it can protect us not just from Covid-19 but also from flu and upper respiratory tract infections," said Salvaña.

In late October, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. issued an executive order allowing the voluntary wearing of face mask indoors across the country.

It comes just a month after Marcos also signed an executive order making face masks voluntary in outdoor settings. (HDT/SunStar Philippines)