President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has issued an executive order allowing the voluntary wearing of face masks in open spaces and non-crowded outdoor areas with adequate ventilation with a goal of further boosting the economy, Malacañang announced Monday, September 12.
Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson who issued a similar executive order on Friday for Negros Occidental, stressed the need for people to use their common sense on the voluntary use of face masks in open spaces.
When in close proximity to other people in outdoor places, protect yourselves because COVID-19 still exist, he said.
Negros Occidental had 185 active COVID-19 cases on Monday, and three deaths during the weekend.
Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez said he will also issue an executive order on the voluntary outdoor use of face masks in Bacolod City.
The president in his Executive Order No. 3 said it is highly encouraged that individuals who are not fully vaccinated, senior citizens, and immunocompromised individuals wear their masks and observe physical distancing at all times.
Face masks should be continuously worn in indoor private or public establishments, including in public transportation by land, air, or sea, and in outdoor settings where physical distancing can’t be maintained, EO3 states.*