Duterte keeps face mask mandate until end of term

President Rodrigo Duterte has mandated the continued wearing of face masks in the Philippines until the end of his term, citing the risk of another COVID-19 wave.

Duterte urged the public to strictly observe minimum public health standards, warning against complacency.

He noted that other countries' relaxation of these policies might have contributed to their sudden spike in coronavirus cases.

The President stated that lifting the mask mandate would be a reckless move, especially for a country like the Philippines that cannot afford another pandemic surge.

Duterte emphasized that the requirement to wear masks will remain a protocol until his last day in office.