Eighty-nine percent of Filipinos wear face masks to avoid getting coronavirus disease (COVID-19), a survey conducted by independent research group OCTA showed.

The Tugon ng Masa survey found that using face masks and regular cleaning of hands using water and soap or alcohol were the top measures Filipinos practice to avoid contracting COVID-19, with 89 percent and 85 percent of Filipinos practicing each, respectively.

The survey was conducted from July 12 to 18, 2021 with 1,200 respondents.

Other measures mentioned were the use of face shields (70 percent) and observance of social distancing (64 percent).

While the majority comply with the minimum public health standards, OCTA noted that adherence to the four measures has decreased in the past month.

OCTA saw the highest decline in the use of face shields, down by 11 percent from the previous month.

Moreover, 25 percent of Filipinos avoided domestic travel, while 20 percent consulted a doctor or healthcare provider when they were unwell.

Staying at home was practiced more in Metro Manila compared to other areas, it also pointed out.

"Observing physical and social distancing and wearing a face shield when going out of the house is still frequently done by adult Filipinos but not as consistent as the other measures," OCTA said.

It noted that the percentage of Filipinos who often or frequently observe the minimum public health standards to avoid getting infected or spreading the disease has declined compared to the survey results in January 2021.