A survey from OCTA Research shows that many Filipinos will continue to wear face masks even if the spread of Covid-19 is controlled.
This comes as the Philippine government recently declared that the wearing of face masks is now voluntary in open spaces and non-crowded outdoor areas with good ventilation.
According to OCTA Research’s survey, around 28 percent of the respondents will continue wearing masks a full year after Covid-19 is declared controlled. Meanwhile, 16 percent said that they will continue to do so even after two years the virus is declared controlled and 18 percent said that they will still wear masks after five years.
“These are huge numbers. There seems to be a consensus among adult Filipinos that masks are important and we don’t need to encourage them. They will wear masks because of their belief that it is for their own safety,” said OCTA Research fellow Ranjit Rye.
The survey results are a good sign that Filipinos are willing to do what it takes to protect themselves and others from Covid-19, mandate or no.
Face masks are still mandatory in indoor private or public establishments, including public transportation by land, air, or sea, and in outdoor settings where physical distancing cannot be maintained.
