The Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases has required the public to wear face shields in supermarkets, public markets and malls, Malacañang said on Monday.

“Ang pagsuot ng face shield, required na rin sa supermarkets, public markets, malls at venues ng government-initiated meetings at mga lugar kung saan isinasagawa ang mga mahahalagang serbisyo ng pamahalaan,” Palace spokesman Harry Roque said.

The IATF approved the new protocol last Sept. 3.

In Resolution 68, local government units were encouraged to provide their constituents with face shields, giving priority to members of the vulnerable population.

The public was also “highly encouraged” to wear face shields in all other public areas.

Previously, face shields were only required in enclosed commercial establishments, workplaces and public transport.

Malacañang has repeatedly urged the wearing of both face shields and face masks in public spaces, citing results of studies showing effectiveness in reducing virus transmission. John Ezekiel J. Hirro