These Philippine Cities Are Getting Rid of the Face Shield Policy

PHOTO BY Jerome Ascano

(SPOT.ph) Since 2020, various studies have concluded the ineffectivity of face shields in protecting people from getting exposed to virus particles. But the World Health Organization, Department of Health, and the national government stuck to their decision on using the pieces of plastic—at least until September when it was only required in indoor spaces. While the Inter-Agency Task Force has yet to come up with a final solution, some local government units have taken it upon themselves to make the use of face shields voluntary.

Also read: Engineer Shows Simulation of How Face Shields Absorb COVID-19 Particles

Here are the Philippine cities that have lifted the strict face shield policy:

Iloilo City

Iloilo City's Sangguniang Panglungsod "approved the endorsement amending the mandatory use of face shields," according to Mayor Jerry Treñas. The Iloilo mayor initially called for the "suspension of the mandatory use of face shields or eye protectors in some public places that [the city council] may find acceptable." In a letter addressed to City Councilor Ely A. Estante on November 4, Treñas cited a scientific study saying "face shields are not effective blockers of cough aerosols."

"Mask na lang. But it's up to you kon gusto mo gid ya mag-face shield," local media outlet Iloilo Metropolitan Times quoted Treñas. They also reported that the policy is effective starting November 5.

Davao City

Mayor Sara Duterte on November 2 signed Executive Order 51, which made the use of face shields voluntary in the so-called 3Cs: "crowded places, close contact settings, and confined and enclosed spaces." Prior to this, the national government mandated the use of face shields in the aforementioned category; Davao City, however, made this optional. They've also lifted the use of plastic barriers in public utility vehicles, although drivers still have that option.

Cebu City

Cebu City Acting Mayor Mike Rama clarified on November 5 that businesses have the authority to require the use of face shields among their customers. Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Felix Taguiam, according to a report by Rappler, said that they would not be issuing any mandate to require face shields within establishments.

Manila City

Manila Mayor Isko Moreno announced on Monday, November 8 that the use of face shields is not anymore required within the Philippines' capital. Wearing of face shield will only be required in hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities, according to an executive order.

"For now, this is not mandatory anymore. 'Yong inyong mga kahilingan sa akin, ang inyong mga sulat at messages na pag-aralan maigi 'yung paggamit ng face shield ay ito na po, dininig na po ng inyong lingkod," he said.

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Source: Spot PH