People may not wear face masks outside their homes or in Cebu City’s open spaces.
This follows Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama’s signing this Wednesday of an executive order that removes the mandatory face mask policy in outdoor and open spaces due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Based on Executive Order No. 5, stated that the use and wearing of face masks in Cebu City has been declared “non-obligatory.”
Instead, the use of a face mask is up to the person as “self preservation and protection under the principle of shared responsibility and mutual respect.”
It is also stated in EO 5 that it is time to change the policy on the use of face masks “as the lethal effect of the pandemic is already wearing off and that vaccination has been proven to be an effective means in containing the spread and the impact of COVID- 19.”
“Most people remain uninformed as to the protection offered by the kind of face mask and the proper way of wearing the same, so long as they have complied with the mandatory wearing of face mask and even just for a show while it cost money and offers inconvenience,” the said EO.
“On the other side, the long and mandatory wearing of face mask had affected the person as a biopsychosocial and spiritual being,” it added.
Cebu City removes face mask requirement outside, open spaces
Face masks continue to be used in hospitals, clinics, and other medical or diagnostic facilities.
It will be left up to the management of establishments, businesses, and other buildings if they make it mandatory to wear a face mask.
The Cebu City government also advises those who are immunocompromised, sick and experiencing flu-like symptoms to stay at home or see a doctor.
They also must wear a face mask, especially when leaving the house.
Meanwhile, Press Secretary Trixie Cruz-Angeles did not comment on the matter.
“There is no reaction yet from the Palace on this one. It may be taken under advisement although we do respect the mandates of local governments over their own jurisdictions,” said the official.
“If this is brought up then we will make such an announcement. We are also waiting for the reaction of the DOH on this one, so without all of that info coming in, there will be no statement yet,” she added.
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