PCP: Public seems to be keeping their face masks on despite eased rules

While the Philippine College of Physicians (PCP) supported Executive Order No. 3 (EO3) which allows the voluntary use of face masks in outdoor settings, the PCP said on Tuesday that the public nevertheless seemed to be still wearing their face masks and taking individual responsibility for controlling the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Lumabas ka, makikita mo, ang mga tao naka face mask pa rin. I think that's an indication that we have educated the public. This is so-called individual responsibility now of getting into the system... making the whole country responsible for controlling the pandemic," PCP President Dr. Diana Payawal said on Balitanghali.

Payawal added that there was merit in still being cautious. “Luluwagan natin pero dapat pa rin tayong mag-ingat. Hindi po natin inaalis na medyo pwede pong tumaas,”

"Ito po ay only with the individuals who are young and outdoors. Ibig sabihin may dalawang subset na dapat pwede po at hindi sila immunocompromised, hindi sila elderly, at outdoor.”

While 93% or 72 million had had their primary vaccinations, booster vaccinations were still low at 23% or 18 million.

With this, PCP encouraged the public to support booster vaccinations and maintain health and safety measures.

Payawal also highlighted the importance of continued monitoring of COVID-19 cases.

Executive Order No. 3 states that "the voluntary wearing of face masks in open spaces and non-crowded outdoor areas with good ventilation is hereby allowed; provided that not fully vaccinated individuals, senior citizens, and immunocompromised individuals are highly encouraged to wear their masks, and physical distancing will be observed at all times." — Sherylin Untalan/DVM, GMA News