More Cebu LGUs scrap face shield policy

CEBU, Philippines — The wearing of face shields, except in hospitals and other medical facilities, is no longer mandatory in three more cities in Cebu.

Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Junard Chan issued an executive order (EO) on Thursday lifting the face shield requirement.

Chan said his city, which is has been under Alert Level 2 since Oct. 20, recorded only 46 active cases as of Nov. 11.

“The city government believes that existing health protocols consisting of mandatory wearing of face masks, social distancing and strict compliance with venue capacity limitations coupled with the intensive vaccination drive are sufficient measures to prevent an increase in COVID cases,” Chan’s EO stated.

Mandaue City Mayor Jonas Cortes and Talisay City Mayor Gerald Anthony Gullas Jr. issued separate EOs which declared that wearing of face shields shall be voluntary even in crowded places, close contact settings and confined and enclosed spaces.

The EO took effect in Mandaue on Friday.

“In all other places, the use of face shields shall not be required while the city is classified under Alert Level 2,” Cortes said.

He said Mandaue recorded 50 active COVID-19 cases on Thursday.

In Talisay, Gullas said private offices or enclosed establishments may require their guests or staff to wear face shields within their premises.

”The keyword here is that it is optional,” he said.

Gullas said the city government decided to lift the face shield requirement in response to the appeal and recommendation of various sectors, including the business industry. – Caecent Magsumbol/The Freeman