Manila Mayor Isko Moreno will proceed with the implementation of lifting the face shield policy in the city despite Harry Roque’s “null and void” statement.
On Monday, Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso said that the city will proceed with the implementation of an executive order lifting the face shield policy.
This, after Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque earlier said that Moreno’s executive order had no effect and was “null and void” because it’s in violation of an existing IATF (Inter-Agency Task Force) order that required the use of face shields.
According to the Palace spokesman, all local chief executives (LCEs) needed to follow the chain of command in the executive branch.
However, the Manila mayor stood by his decision and reiterated that the city will not postpone the implementation of the executive order.
“Well, he is entitled to his opinion,” Moreno said in an interview. “As far as the Local Government Code is concerned, it is within the power of the local chief executive under Section 16, the general welfare clause. His opinion is as good as mine.”
According to Moreno, the local government units (LGUs) and other elected officials have a responsibility to take care of their people.
READ ALSO: Malacañang Warns LGUs vs Lifting Face Shield Policy In PH
The Manila mayor also challenged the Palace spokesman to first file a case against a “certain mayor” who had signed a similar issuance earlier this year.
“Pwede naman nila subukan. Well, wala naman makakapigil sa kanila. Dapat may suspinde muna sila isang Mayor,” Moreno said.
Also on Monday, Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergiere appealed to put the issuance on hold and wait for the recommendation of experts and the decision of the national government on the use of face shields.
Moreno signed on Monday the executive order on the lifting of the face shield policy in the city of Manila except in hospital settings, medical clinics, and other medical facilities.
The City of Manila was the first city to declare the removal of face shield policy in the country.
“As far as Manila is concerned, we are vaccinated, the people. We have low infection [rates]. The people of Manila deserve some ease. And that’s what we’re after. Tao muna,” Moreno said.
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