By: Reigh John Bench Almendras
Millions are now free to be maskless after national health protocols lift by presidential proclamation. Photo courtesy of Rappler.
National institutions and agencies imposed a new set of health-related policies after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. lifted the state of public emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic in the country.
The Department of Transportation has issued Department Order No. 2023-017, withdrawing all policies that are only applicable during a public health emergency.
All Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) and Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) lines no longer require wearing of face masks and now permit personal and via phone conversations inside the train.
The Department of Health (DOH) issued an advisory lifting all COVID-19 protocols for travelers, making use of face masks non-compulsory.
The Civil Aeronautics Board also issued a parallel advisory that allows all airline companies to discontinue the implementation of COVID-19 protocols.
Passengers do not have to upload any proof of vaccination and negative COVID-19 test result when registering to eTravel Portal.
The Bureau of Quarantine will continue to monitor inbound passengers who will exhibit flu-like symptoms to be determined by positioned thermal scanners.
Note to Letranites:
The Colegio has updated the health protocols for the upcoming academic year set to begin on August 7.
Wearing of face masks is now non-compulsory but highly encouraged especially in enclosed spaces.
Health Declaration Form will be removed, but temperature checks will remain in place to detect sick individuals (all those with temperature reading 37.6 degrees celsius).
Everyone is still encouraged to get vaccinated and continue hand washing protocols.
Exit area at the main gate will also be open.