Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama signed an EO lifting mandatory face mask policy in outdoors and open spaces.
On Wednesday, Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama signed an executive order (EO) lifting the mandatory face mask policy in outdoor and open spaces amidst the coronavirus pandemic.
As stated in Executive Order No. 5, the use and wearing of face masks in Cebu City has been declared “non-obligatory” and face mask use will instead be individually taken as a measure of “self-preservation and protection under the principle of shared responsibility and mutual respect”.
However, the said EO exempts clinics, hospitals, and other medical or diagnostic facilities, which still mandate the use of face masks in such establishments, subject to the discretion of the administrator or the policy of the entity.
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EO 5 also stated that it’s “high time” to simplify and declare such policy, citing that the “lethal effect of the pandemic is already wearing off” and that COVID-19 vaccination “has been proven to be an effective means” in containing the spread and the impact of coronavirus disease.
Meanwhile, the EO 5 stated that all establishments, businesses, and entities in the city — including administrators of facilities and building — are granted the option whether or not to follow suit within their areas of responsibility. In doing so, they are mandated to formulate a “reasonable policy” in order to implement their face mask policy in line with self-regulation.
Also, the Cebu City government strongly advised those who are sick, immunocompromised, and have flu-like symptoms to stay at home and seek immediate medical consultation. Likewise, they are still required to wear their face masks especially when outside their residence.
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