The Department of Transportation said over the weekend wearing face masks in all public transport across the country are no longer required after the government lifted the COVID-19 protocols.
Secretary Jaime Bautista said this is in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Proclamation No. 297, lifting the COVID-19 state of public health emergency throughout the country.
The Department of Health also echoed that the President’s proclamation rescinding the mask requirement in public transport.
Bautista said the department also lifted the physical distancing protocols in public transportation, and all passenger vehicles could now operate at full capacity.
“This new development is a significant step towards normalizing public transportation and supporting economic recovery,” Bautista said.
“While public safety remains a top priority, the removal of protocols aims to facilitate commuters’ convenience, contribute to the revival of the transportation industry, and help stimulate economic activity,” he added.
Bautista said despite the removal of the COVID-19 protocols, frequent sanitization in public transportation would continue to prevent any potential health risk.