No more face masks!

‘Marcos Oks voluntary use of face mask outdoors despite Covid-19’

PRESIDENT Bongbong Marcos has now allowed the voluntary wearing of face masks in open spaces and non-crowded outdoor areas with adequate ventilation.

Marcos signed Executive Order No. 3 after approving the recommendation of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management and Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) on the optional use of face masks outdoors.

But according to the EO No. 3, face masks should be continuously worn in indoor private or public establishments, including in public transportation by land, air, or sea, and in outdoor settings where physical distancing cannot be maintained.

However, people who are not fully vaccinated, including senior citizens, and immunocompromised individuals are to wear their face masks and observe physical distancing at all times.

The EO No. 3 is in response to the “improving” Covid-19 situation in the country, noting a steady decline in new cases and primarily attributed to the success of the country's intensified vaccination campaign.

Amid the removal of the mandatory face mask policy, the public is still strongly advised to follow minimum safety protocols, such as frequent hand washing for added safety. 

The IATF has issued a resolution recommending the liberalization of the government’s mask mandate by amending the guideline and making mask wearing optional in open spaces or non-crowded, ventilated areas, and through possible alternative EO lifting the mandatory mask mandate.

The Philippine economy contracted in 2020 because of the pandemic, with its effects trickling down to the grassroots level, resulting in job losses and business closures. The goal of EO No. 3 is to further boost the economy.

Despite the sustained growth in the country’s gross domestic product, economic recovery from the pandemic is still ongoing amidst uncertainties in the international economic environment. (Mindanao Examiner)