The mandatory wearing of face masks in well-ventilated and open spaces is no longer required in Cebu province, its governor announced Thursday.
In an Executive Order (EO) No. 16, Cebu Governor Gwen Garcia said face masks will only be mandated in closed and air-conditioned spaces, as well as among people manifesting COVID-19 symptoms.
"Persons who are unwell with symptoms of the COVID-19 such as fever, cough, or runny nose, are required to wear a mask at all times when they leave their homes," the document read.
The new directive takes effect immediately.
However, the provincial government advised the public to keep wearing face masks, especially in crowded areas.
Cebu province, which is the first local government to scrap the face mask rule, remains under Alert Level 2 until June 15.
