Department of Labour and Employment lays down the law on post-pandemic policies
Wearing facemasks in private-sector workplaces is now optional in the Philippines, according to the latest announcement of the country's Department of Labour and Employment (DOLE). In its Labour Advisory No. 22, DOLE said that "wearing of face masks in workplaces shall be voluntary," except in the following settings:
- Healthcare facilities, including, but not limited to, clinics, hospitals, laboratories, nursing homes, and dialysis clinics
- Medical transportation vehicles (Ambulance and paramedic rescue vehicles)
- Public transportation by land, air, or sea
"Elderly, immunocompromised, unvaccinated, and symptomatic individuals, individuals with comorbidities, and pregnant women are highly encouraged to wear face masks," the advisory said.
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Can workplaces implement their own mask policy?
DOLE said that employers and their workers may impose their own office policy of wearing face masks. It should, however, take into account the following criteria:
- Hazards and risks (enclosed space and poor ventilation)
- Industry requirements (food safety)
- Incidence of other communicable diseases (e.g., flu and tuberculosis)
Employers may also implement measures to address non-compliance to the company's mask-wearing policy, according to the department.
"Employers and their workers have a shared responsibility to ensure safe and healthful working conditions in accordance with the provisions of the Labour Code of the Philippines, as amended, Republic Act No. 11058, and minimum public health standards," the DOLE advisory said.
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The announcement follows a recent executive order from President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., which also allowed for the optional use of facemasks in indoor and outdoor settings.
The country's Department of Health, in the wake of the recent easing of restrictions, urged local government units to ensure that cases of COVID-19 in their jurisdictions remain low, especially ahead of the holiday season.
It also urged the public to assess the risks before taking off their masks, especially if they are unvaccinated, in a crowded space, or if they are living with the elderly, pregnant women, or people with comorbidities.
