The Department of Health (DOH) clarified that there is still no reason to reimpose mandatory face mask use nationwide despite the ongoing flu season and rising cases in some areas.
DOH Spokesperson and Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo said in an interview with DZMM Teleradyo that the agency’s decision to enforce mask mandates depends on hospital data, particularly on the number of patients with severe influenza and those admitted to intensive care units (ICUs).
“Not yet. What we look at when we’re thinking of a mandate is the increase of severe hospitalization. We also see if the ICUs are congested, and we haven’t seen anything like that,” Domingo explained.
Domingo also pointed out that implementing penalties for not wearing masks could be challenging, as some individuals might wear them improperly just to appear compliant. He also warned that a sudden surge in demand could lead to price hikes by opportunistic traders.
While Quezon Province has made mask-wearing mandatory following a local rise in flu-like illnesses, the DOH maintains that the overall situation nationwide remains under control.
From September 28 to October 11, the agency recorded 6,457 influenza-like illness (ILI) cases across the country—down by 39 percent from the 10,740 cases reported in the previous two-week period.
“There is no reason to say that there is an outbreak because the data show that. But we don’t want to be complacent because we know this is flu season and cases may rise if we won’t take care of ourselves,” Domingo said.
He added that DOH hospitals are prepared for a possible uptick in cases, with surge capacity plans in place that allocate an additional 10 percent of bed capacity for patients.
Domingo reminded the public that mask-wearing remains voluntary but strongly encouraged, especially for those feeling unwell or vulnerable. However, masks are still required in hospitals to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
