No recommendation yet to reinstitute mandatory mask rule amid Covid-19 case uptick–DOH
There is no recommendation yet from the Department of Health (DOH) to bring back the mandatory wearing of face masks amid the rise in Covid-19 infections in the country.
“Currently, there is no recommendation from the Department of Health on the amendment of the Executive Order No. 7 regarding the wearing of face masks,” the agency said in a brief statement on Friday, April 14.
To note, Executive Order No. 7 was issued by the Malacanang in October 2022, allowing the optional face mask use in both indoor and outdoor settings.
Recently, the DOH reported that an increase in Covid-19 cases was monitored in some parts of the country. At present, the Philippines’ average daily cases is at 278. However, cases could reach over 600 per day by May 15.
“The DOH continuously reminds the public on the individual risk assessment to employ layers of protection (masking, ventilation) for individuals and the community,” it said.
“We remind everyone to be cautious and isolate if you experience symptoms of Covid-19 to prevent further transmission,” it added.
Filipinos were also reminded to get vaccinated and boosted against Covid-19.
“We have seen increase in cases of those unvaccinated individuals,” the DOH said.
“We urge the public to get yourself vaccinated and get boosted. Vaccines remain to be our best protection against the severe forms of Covid-19,” it added.