It also states that Executive Order 5 requires wearing of face masks if cases spike. Face mask use is still required inside hospitals and medical facilities, as well as air-conditioned buses.
“Non-obligatory ‘yan. Sa kanila na ‘yun [It’s non-obligatory. It’s up to them], we do not also stop them if they wish because if they feel secure, then let them continue wearing the face mask,” Rama said in a phone interview with CNN Philippines on Monday.
The mayor told News Night the local government wants to balance the economy and health care. He added that the local government is focusing on COVID-19 vaccine boosters and pediatric vaccination.
On this matter, Rama said he hoped the IATF would not be “parochial” when it comes to the mask mandate.
“It has always been our wish that we will be granted an exception to be a model on how any local government unit or province can handle COVID-19,” he said.
Cebu City (CNN Philippines, September 5) — The Cebu City government on Monday set a trial period for its relaxed face mask policy, and a provision for mandatory use.
In the supplementary order signed by Mayor Mike Rama, the policy allowing optional face mask use outdoors will be effective from Sept. 1 to Dec. 31.
The mayor also gave discretion to business establishments, building managers, and school administrators whether or not to require face masks in their premises.
The wearing of masks in open spaces is up to the person.
EO 5 issued in August quickly drew negative reactions from the Department of the Interior and Local Government and the Department of Health since the country remains under a national health emergency, and easing mask rules may lead to a possible surge in COVID-19 infections.
Health officer-in-charge Maria Rosario Vergeire said the Inter-Agency Task Force would meet on Monday to discuss the Cebu City mask policy.
Cebu-based correspondent Dale Israel contributed to this report.
