DOLE makes face mask use voluntary in private workplaces

Wearing face masks in private workplaces is now voluntary following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s Executive Order No. 7.

However, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has listed exceptions where mask-wearing remains mandatory: healthcare facilities, medical transport vehicles, and public transportation.

DOLE also encourages vulnerable groups such as the elderly, unvaccinated individuals, pregnant women, those with comorbidities, and immunocompromised people to continue wearing masks.