Philippines ends mandatory wearing of masks outdoors

Philippines ends mandatory wearing of masks outdoors

More than two years after it was implemented at the height of the coronavirus pandemic, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has approved a recommendation to end the mandatory wearing of face masks outdoors across the country. Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos said that the Philippines and Myanmar are the last countries in Southeast Asia to end the mandate. He added that the change in the country’s masking policy will take effect after Marcos Jr. issues an executive order. According to a study, the lifting of the mandatory requirement in other countries has not led to an alarming upsurge in infections when people continue to take precautions. The decision followed after Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama declared wearing masks outdoors voluntary in a trial period ending at the end of the year. The Philippines, one of the countries in Southeast Asia hardest struck by coronavirus outbreaks, imposed one of the world's longest lockdowns, resulting in the country's worst economic downturn in decades and increased levels of hunger, poverty, and unemployment. BKM/ Expat Media

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