Mar Roxas questions face shield policy: No proof it can protect from COVID-19

Face shield on or off?

Former Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas is among those questioning the government’s mandatory use of face shields during the coronavirus pandemic.

Roxas agreed that face shields can be used in hospitals but such gear should be scrapped when outdoors. Besides, there is no scientific proof that face shields could protect a person from COVID-19, the former senator said.

The former DILG chief discussed the Duterte government’s controversial face shield policy during an interview with ANC Television last Wednesday, August 25, 2021.

“Wala naman bansa, walang siyentipiko, walang journal na nagsasabi na may bisa ‘yang face shield na ‘yan,” Roxas said.

“‘Yang face shield na yan ginagamit ‘yan sa mga hospital setting para hindi mag-spray kung ano mang mga plema, dugo o kung anuman są mga nanggagamot sa kanila,” he said.

He wondered why the government kept insisting on the face shield policy when even the World Health Organization has not required its use against coronavirus. “Bakit nag-i-insist tayo ng face shield?” he asked.

The government, Roxas said, should instead focus on improving its pandemic response, providing aid to people in need, and addressing questions about alleged overpriced medical supplies.

“Bakit hindi na nila sagutin na bakit ‘yun ang presyo ng bili nila sa face shield P120. ‘Yun ang mga dapat sagutin,” he said.

Wearing of face shields is among the health protocols enforced by the national government. The shields must be worn with a mask for supposed added protection against COVID-19.

Based on the Department of Health order, face shields are required in the following areas:
-enclosed public spaces
-schools
-workplaces
-commercial establishments such as, but not limited to, food establishments, malls, and public markets
-public transport and terminals
-places of worship
-other public spaces wherein 1 meter physical distancing is not possible and if there is a gathering of more than 10 people at the same venue and time

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Source: Latest Politics News Today (Politics.com.ph)