It seems that the issue regarding the use of face masks and the protocol of physical (not social) distancing in light of COVID-19 infection is a continuing concern.
Despite the seemingly contrasting viewpoints regarding the use/nonuse of face masks among health specialists, government executives, businessmen, school administrators, and ordinary citizens (commuters, shoppers, etc.), these issues would still pose a “risk” and remain to be the lookout of an individual even if President Marcos Jr. has signed an executive order making masking voluntary indoors, except in medical facilities and public transportation. The real problem arises if such individual choices at the end of the day will impact the infectious resurgence of COVID-19 and its variants.
As a responsible citizen, I would still prefer to use a face mask primarily to shun the effects of COVID-19 and its variants, as well as protect myself from the ever-menacing effects of incessant pollution. It may also sound like a broken record to continuously emphasize the protocol on physical distancing since it is, by human nature, very difficult to be followed by anyone and even almost impossible to be implemented by the enforcers.
As a primary weapon to avoid the risk of being infected by COVID-19 and its variants, administrators of enclosed areas, such as classrooms, business offices, etc., may still have to seriously consider implementing the wearing of face masks and following physical distancing protocols.
Now, more than ever, it becomes really opportune for the President to already appoint a health secretary who is qualified to manage these health-related concerns once and for all.
EMILIANO M. MANAHAN JR.
Advocate and Author