Distribution of free masks and face shields will complement the Quezon City (QC) government’s intensified campaign against violators of the face mask and shield ordinance.
Based on data from the QC Police Districts (QCPD), 825 were arrested from May 6 to 11 for not wearing or improperly wearing masks and face shields in public places.
About 7,600 individuals were given warnings (for temporarily removing their masks) while 7,886 were fined.
The first offense carries a PHP300 fine, the second offense PHP500, and the third offense PHP1,000.
Ordinance violation receipts (OVRs) will be issued to those unable to pay but the fine must be settled as it will reflect in applications for police clearance.
If the violator resists or intentionally defies authorities by still refusing to comply, an arrest will follow.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Mayor Joy Belmonte expressed concern over the increasing number of violators of the minimum health and safety protocols, mostly from among the vulnerable sectors.
Statistics showed the elderly and children or minors are those who received warnings.
To support its campaign, the local government is distributing about 1.2 million masks and 300,000 face shields to indigent residents of its 142 villages.
Among those who benefitted from the free items were vendors, tricycle drivers, and senior citizens.
“We are giving out more face masks and face shields, especially to our indigent residents who cannot afford to buy so that hopefully, we can reduce the number of health protocol violators,” Belmonte said.
The OVRs can be settled later.
“As much as possible we want to avoid detaining them because we lack space in our detention facilities and the virus could easily spread in enclosed spaces,” Belmonte said.
QC ordinance requires “persons shall, at all times, wear a face shield on top of a face mask while onboard public transportation, markets, or in indoor and enclosed spaces of identified commercial establishments and workplaces in Quezon City, regardless of the length of time.” (PNA)
