The Department of Health (DOH) is now considering the mandatory wearing of face shields in workplaces amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire stated that some studies have shown that wearing of the said equipment with face masks can limit virus transmission. Although it is not mandatory, the department is encouraging the public to wear it.
The DOH is now coordinating with the DTI whether or not a Suggested Retail Price (SRP) shall be imposed on face shields amid increasing prices due to high demand.
“In a few days, ilalabas nila iyon [SRP]. Kasi last week pa naman iyong instruction sa kanila (The [SRP] will be released in a few days since the instruction was given to them last week),” DTI Undersecretary Ruth Castelo explained.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) also warned those who take advantage of the situation to sell face shields at exorbitant prices.
“Malaking perwisyo para sa mga negosyo nila because we will have to penalize them at kakasuhan pa sila sa court. Kaya huwag na nilang hintaying, huwag nang hintayin na mahuli sila. Iayos nila iyong presyo (It means big trouble for their business since they will be penalized and charged in court. They don’t have to wait to get caught.They should give the right price),” Castelo advised.
Republic Act No. 7581 or The Price Act prohibits hoarding and profiteering of basic necessities, including those determined by the DOH in times of calamity or emergency. The government may also implement price control.
The DOH is encouraging the wearing of face masks inside houses as well amid reports on COVID-19 transmission among family members.
Meanwhile, August 10 data of the DOH show that there are now 136,638 total confirmed COVID-19 cases, 2,293 deaths, and 68,159 recoveries nationwide. – Report from Sandra Samala
