Davao City allows the voluntary wearing of face masks outside; however, masks must be worn indoors

DAVAO CITY will allow the voluntary use of face masks in public places beginning Monday, September 12, 2022.

"Mayor (Baste Duterte) has already ordered compliance with the EO pending MPHS (minimum public health standards) amendment from IATF. Existing ordinances related to this will be put on hold. We will allow the optional wearing of facemasks outdoors as indicated in the provisions of EO 3," City Health Office head Dr. Ashley Lopez told SunStar Davao in a text message.

He stated that the provisions of City Ordinance No. 0307-20, or the face mask ordinance, have been suspended for outdoor settings.

Lopez and Dr. Michelle Schlosser, spokesperson for the Davao City Covid-19 Task Force, emphasized that the Palace's EO contains conditions that must be met.

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. issued on Monday, September 12, 2022, an executive order (EO) allowing the voluntary wearing of face masks in outdoor setting across the country amid the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic. Face masks are no longer required in "open spaces and non-crowded outdoor areas with good ventilation" under EO 3, which takes effect immediately.

However, the elderly, immunocompromised individuals, and those who have not yet completed their Covid-19 vaccination are "strongly advised" to continue wearing their face masks in all public places to ensure their safety. Individuals who have completed their primary series of Covid-19 vaccine are considered fully vaccinated.

Among the factors influencing the relaxation of the face mask mandate are the country's high vaccination rate and the improved Covid-19 situation.

Over 72 million people have received full Covid-19 vaccinations, with an additional 18 million receiving booster doses.

Meanwhile, wearing face masks indoors, whether private or public, is still required, including public transportation by land, air, or sea.

The EO stated that "face masks shall continue to be worn in indoor private or public establishments, including public transportation by land, air, or sea, and in outdoor settings where physical distancing cannot be maintained."

Those who do not wear face masks indoors or on public transportation in Davao City will face penalties.