We’ve all breathed a sigh of relief when masking restrictions were eased gradually. The DOTr, though. has reminded the public that everyone riding the trains is still mandated to put and keep their masks on while in transit and inside the stations. This is in response to an observed increase in COVID-19 cases in the country.
DOTr: Face mask mandate remains in effect in all trains and (most) stations (LRT, MRT, PNR)
Photo: DOTr
The threat of the pandemic still lingers, and while it seems to have lessened in virulence, it still very much exists, seeing as how the country has seen a bit of a rise in new and active cases as of late. The railways of the LRT, MRT, and PNR are essential for those commuting to and from work, and the sheer number of passengers means that there’s an added risk for all of them.
As such, the DOTr issued a reminder that everyone is mandated to wear their face masks inside the trains and stations of LRT-1, LRT-2, and MRT-3. It will be optional, however, in PNR stations (still required inside the PNR trains) since they are all open spaces.
“Our medical professionals in the railways sector stressed that the risk of COVID-19 transmission remains present in our trains as they are enclosed spaces. Security personnel deployed in all of our stations and trains will help ensure that the policy is strictly enforced,” said Jorjette B. Aquino, Department of Transportation Assistant Secretary for Railways.
ASEC Aquino continues to urge the public to remain vigilant and, if they can, get booster shots against the virus, despite the noticeably lighter and more lenient enforcement of public masking.
Photo: Philippine National Railways
“Even if you are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, you can still become infected and potentially spread the virus to others. As explained by medical professionals, these booster shots are designed to help maintain the level of protection against the virus, especially as new variants emerge,” DOTr‘s Aquino later added.
We all remember how the world seemed to grind to a halt at the height of the global crisis. In case we haven’t noticed, we do have a rise in daily infections and cases. It’s a privilege enough that we now get to enjoy going out more freely than before, but really, we have to do our part and not allow any of this to blow out of proportion, especially if there are some safeguards that can help prevent it from doing so.
Mask up, stay safe, and be practical out there, everyone.
