Mayor Benjamin Magalong, Sept. 11, issued Executive Order 126, s. 2020, mandating the wearing of face shields in public markets, supermarkets, groceries, malls, shopping centers and government offices.
Transactions in these places involve convergence of groups of people and person-to-person interactions are inevitable thus needing the reinforcement of face masks with face shields as an added layer of protection against Covid-19 transmission.
The order cited an Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases Resolution 68, s. 2020, requiring the use of face shields in supermarkets, public markets, malls, and in venues where government-initiated meetings and critical government services are being conducted or provided.
Pursuant to Section 16 of the Local Government Code, the city government is duty bound to implement rules meant to safeguard its citizens from the effects of the Covid-19.
The order states that employees, workers, or personnel within the establishments and offices may momentarily remove their face shields where the conduct of their work does not involve person-to-person interaction with clients, customers, visitors, or co-employees.
The mandatory wearing of face shields shall be done in consonance with strict hygiene and sanitation practices and social distancing.
Those found or caught not properly wearing their face masks and face shields should be refused entry into the establishment.
Further, they may be subject to sanctions as provided in Republic Act 11332, the Revised Penal Code, and such other laws and ordinances so applicable.
The order empowers the city health services office, permits and licensing division, public order and safety division, barangay officials and local police to ensure that its implementation is carried out with utmost consideration for the order, safety and security of all persons involved. – Gaby Keith
April 20, 2024
