MASK IS A MUST IN LA UNION

By: Rhea Matilde A. Ballesteros, GPC-SP | Date: April 7, 2020

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The province of La Union requires its people the mandatory use of face masks whenever they are outside of their residences or in public places and strict observance of physical distancing as provided under Ordinance No. 215-2020 which was passed by the 22nd Sangguniang Panlalawigan during its 41st Regular Session on April 7, 2020.

The passage of the ordinance is in conformity with the directives of the Department of Health (DOH) and Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases that face masks shall be worn at all times in public places and physical distancing shall be strictly observed in order to prevent the further transmission of the Corona Virus Infectious Disease (COVID-19) which has already killed millions of people worldwide.

The face mask, as provided in the ordinance, must sufficiently cover the nose, mouth and chin with specifications and proper use as recommended by the DOH. However, if face masks are not available, the use of indigenous, reusable, homemade or do-it-yourself masks, face shields, handkerchiefs or such other protective equipment which can lessen transmission and/or infection of COVID-19 are allowed.

Aside from the mandatory wearing of face masks, the ordinance also mandates the observance and stringent practice of physical distancing of at least one meter from other persons during the enhanced community quarantine or while the threat of COVID-19 is still persisting.

Persons found violating the said ordinance will be fined P2,000.00 while P5,000.00 for heads of offices/agencies or managers of business establishments for the first infraction, and P5,000 for the subsequent infractions for both.

The City and Municipal Mayors of the component Local Government Units of the province through their respective Punong Barangays and PNP personnel are authorized to strictly enforce or ensure the compliance of the provisions of the ordinance.

Likewise, all government offices and facilities and all private commercial establishments are mandated to strictly implement this policy.