The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) reminded the public to observe minimum health protocols as checkpoints are stationed in strategic locations to ensure that these are strictly observed with authorities remaining steadfast in initiating measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the country.
“Para i check travelers and passengers complying with health protocols (To check if the travellers and passengers are complying with health protocols),’’ DILG Secretary Eduardo Año said.
The minimum health protocols required by government authorities include wearing face masks and face shields and maintaining physical distancing in public places.
In a report over GMA News, Año noted that the move is also in preparation for the anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines on Dec. 26.
With the checkpoints, Año noted that reports revealed that the NPA will conduct atrocities to gain attention as its anniversary nears, adding that their extortion activities are derailed by the strict and intense law enforcement ways of the police and the military.
Among the checkpoints recently installed was one at the boundary of Pasig City and Rizal.
Earlier, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said that people are now required to wear face masks and face shields in public places as the government aims to slow the spread of COVID-19 this holiday season.
Previously, the government required the wearing of face masks and face shields only inside establishments and public transportation vehicles.
The Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) said government agencies will come up with guidelines on the proper use of face shields, including possible exemptions.