Wearing face shield outdoors is no longer mandatory in the Philippines

By Edward Era Barbacena

Manila - Malacañang said that the wearing of face shields is no longer required outdoors, saying the government’s pandemic task force only appealed that it be required indoors.

Philippines Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque made the statement as the public awaits President Duterte’s decision on the appeal of the Inter-agency Task Force (IATF) for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases on his decision to only require face shields in hospitals despite the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

In his press briefing on Monday, June 21, Roque said that the government’s policy on face shields will be discussed in the President’s weekly public address.

However, he clarified that face shields were no longer required outdoors.

"What is clear is this: There is no need for a face shield outside because that was not appealed by the IATF." Roque said

"The IATF appealed only to the wearing of face shield indoors, including in malls, commercial establishments, and public transportation." He said

Roque said that those outside their homes should not be apprehended if they were not wearing a face shield.

Pending the President’s decision, Roque said the rule on shield-wearing will stay.

“While waiting for the President’s decision on the matter, the existing policy on the use of face shields remains in effect,” he said.