The wearing of face masks inside private workplaces is now optional, according to the Department of Labor (DOLE).
The guidelines were released under Labor Advisory No. 22 dated Nov. 2 signed by Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma.
“This Advisory shall cover all workers and workplaces in the private sector. The wearing of face masks in workplaces shall be voluntary,” the order reads.
However, the wearing of face masks is still mandated in three areas including healthcare facilities, medical transport vehicles such as ambulances, and public transportation by land, sea, or air.
Likewise, wearing face masks is still highly encouraged for elderly, unvaccinated individuals, symptomatic individuals, individuals with comorbidities, and pregnant women.
According to the issuance, employers and workers have a “shared responsibility” in ensuring safe and healthful working conditions in adherence with the provision of the Labor Code of the Philippines.
"Employers and their workers may implement a policy requiring the wearing of face masks, taking into account, among others, the hazards and risks (e.g., enclosed space and poor ventilation), industry requirements (e.g.. food safety), and incidence of other communicable diseases (e.g., flu and tuberculosis), including measures to address noncompliance thereto pursuant to the existing company policy, rules, and regulations," it added.
The order complies with Executive order no. 7 issued by President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr., which lifted the mandatory use of face masks both indoor and outdoor spaces.
