Capiz government encourages face mask use amid rising flu cases

By Felipe V. Celino

ROXAS CITY, Capiz – Gov. Fredenil Oto Castro has encouraged all workers at the Capiz provincial capitol and other government offices, including hospitals, to wear face masks due to increasing cases of Influenza-Like Illness in the province.

“In view of the increasing ILI and prevailing weather condition, the provincial government adopts precautionary measures to protect personnel and ensure uninterrupted public service, all employees are strongly encouraged to wear face masks inside government offices, especially in enclosed or covered areas and during interaction with clients or public,” Memorandum Order No. 31, Series of 2026 read.

Castro advised employees exhibiting symptoms such as cough, cold, sore throat, fever, or other flu-like manifestations to wear properly fitted face masks at all times within government premises.

Symptomatic personnel are also advised to observe proper hygiene, seek medical consultation when necessary, and avail themselves of sick leave if warranted.

“All department and head offices shall ensure dissemination and compliance, promote proper ventilation and report any clustering of similar illnesses to appropriate health authorities,” the memorandum added.