(FILE) Bikers pass through a special lane for riders along Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City, during a 3-day road sharing exercise implemented by the MMDA on Saturday, June 27, in an effort to help workers commuting to work with limited public transportation now seen as the new normal. Niño Jesus Orbeta/Philippine Daily Inquirer
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) reiterated on Thursday that cyclists and other active transport users are not required to wear face shields because of potential safety risks.
The DOH said the reminder was issued following reports that cyclists are being arrested for not wearing face shields.
“With increasing reports of cyclists and other active transport users being arrested for not wearing face shields, the Department of Health reiterates that active transport users are NOT required to use face shields due to its potential safety risks when used during active transport,” the DOH said in a statement.
Section II (B) (6) of DOH Department Memorandum No. 2020-0534, which provides guidance on the use of face shields, states that “individuals engaged in strenuous activities/work, fine workmanship, operation of transportation vehicles, and active transport” are exempted from wearing face shields.
The DOH added that Section II (A) (5) of the Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2021-0001 from different government agencies state that “due to the possible vision impairment face shields bring, bikers and users of other forms of active transport are exempted from the mandatory use of face shields outside of their residences.”
“Nevertheless, pursuant to DOH-DOTr-DILG-DPWH Joint Administrative Order No. 2020-0001, the DOH emphasizes that face shields must be worn before and after cycling or other similar activities,” the health department said.
“The DOH further reminds active transport users that the use of face masks; and the observance of physical distancing, respiratory hygiene practices, and other appropriate health interventions must continue to be practiced while cycling or engaging in other forms of active transport,” the agency added.
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