Davao City order on optional use of face shields also flagged ‘null, ‘void’

As the number of COVID cases continues to decrease in Davao City, the local government has eased restrictions including the mandatory wearing of face shields in public transportation and establishments. KARLOS MANLUPIG

MANILA, Philippines — The order in Davao City making the use of face shields optional is likewise “null and void” as the national government has yet to decide on its policy on the said personal protective equipment, Malacañang said Monday.

Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque was referring to Executive Order 51 signed by Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte, making the use of face shields voluntary in “crowded places, close-contact settings, and confined and enclosed spaces.” At the same time, personal protective equipment is not required in all other spaces.

READ: In Davao City, use of face shield now optional; establishments may still require it

Roque echoed his previous remark on Manila City’s executive order making face shields “non-mandatory” except in the hospital setting, calling the issuance “null and void.”

“Same response to Manila City mayor Isko Moreno’s executive order,” he told INQUIRER.net about Davao City’s executive order.

In his remark regarding the Manila City order, he noted that the national government pandemic task force has yet to decide on its policy on face shield use.

While the task force is deciding, the existing rule still stands, meaning face shields are still required in specific settings, especially indoors and crowded spaces.

With this, he reminded local government units, specifically mayors, that they are under the control and supervision of the President, thus must follow the chain of command and follow the IATF’s policy.

He also urged the public to wait for the decision of the IATF on the mandatory use of face shields.

READ: Palace says Manila LGU’s order to drop the face shield mandate ‘null and void’