Face shields could make a comback if the quarantine status in Metro Manila is raised further from Alert Level 3, authorities said, as a post-Christmas spike in COVID cases forced the reimposition of some curbs.
The plastic face coverings are required under Alert Level 5 and at Alert Level 4, local authorities are given the discretion on whether or not to reinstate mandatory face shield wearing, according to pandemic protocols.
Metro Manila and the surrounding provinces of Bulacan, Cavite and Rizal are under Alert Level 3 until Jan. 15. Authorities warned of a "high possibility" of local transmission of the Omicron variant and an "exponential rise" in cases.
"Ang face shield sa ating IATF resolution ay nasa Level 4 at Level 5... Sa Level 3 and down, wala naman, it's still voluntary," Interior Secretary Eduardo Año told TeleRadyo.
MORE ON FACE SHIELDS:
Goodbye, Face Shields: Duterte Scraps Requirement in Alert Level 1, 2, 3 Areas
Face Shields are 'Encouraged' Says Palace as World Moves vs Omicron
Año reminded the public to observe minimum public health standards like physical distancing and proper wearing of face masks to temper the rising number of cases. He also urged the unvaccinated to get jabbed.
"Sana 'wag na tayo aabot sa Alert Level 5 o kahit sa Alert Level 4 kung makikisama lang ang lahat ng mga kababayan natin, susunod sa minimum public health standards at susunod sa panuntunan ng Alert Level 3, 'di naman siguro aabot tayo doon."
MORE ON ALERT LEVEL 3:
Alert Level 3 vs Alert Level 2, What Will Change?
Alert Level 3: Here's Your Metro Manila Mall Guide
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