CEBU CITY – Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia has eased the protocol on wearing of face masks, one of the primary measures that the government has set to stem the spread of Covid-19.
Under Executive Order (EO) No. 16 titled “Rationalizing the wearing of face masks within Cebu” that Garcia issued on June 8, wearing of face masks “shall be required only in closed and or airconditioned spaces.”
“As a necessary step towards the new normal, there is a need to rationalize the requirement on wearing of masks,” Garcia said in her EO.
Garcia added that the use of face masks “shall be optional in well-ventilated and open spaces.”
“However, persons are highly encouraged to continue to wear their masks especially in crowded outdoor areas,” she said.
Wearing of face masks is still required for people manifesting Covid-19 symptoms. “Persons who are unwell with symptoms of the Covid-19 such as fever, cough, or runny nose are required to wear masks at all times when they leave their homes,” Garcia said.
In issuing the EO, Garcia cited that other countries, including Singapore, have already directed the wearing of face masks and other personal protective equipment be optional in outdoor due to the global improvement of the Covid-19 situation. “The Executive Order shall take effect immediately upon its issuance,” the lady governor said.