DOTr: Face-mask wearing remains mandatory in LRT, MRT, PNR trains

The Department of Transportation said on Sunday that due to the rising COVID-19 cases across the country, face mask mandates would continue to be strictly enforced in all trains of the Light Rail Transit (LRT), Metro Rail Transit (MRT), and Philippine National Railways (PNR).

DOTr Assistant Secretary for Railways Jorjette B. Aquino said that face-mask wearing would remain mandatory inside trains as a preventive measure against COVID-19.

Aquino added that face-mask wearing was also mandatory inside LRT-1, LRT-2, and MRT-3 stations. However, the policy becomes optional at PNR stations as these were open-air 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,” Aquino explained.

“Security personnel deployed in all of our stations and trains will help ensure that the policy is strictly enforced.”

While millions of Filipinos have received their COVID-19 vaccine, Aquino urged the riding public to remain vigilant and encouraged them to protect their fellow commuters by wearing masks.

“Even if you are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, you can still become infected and potentially spread the virus to others,” the rail sector official said.

Aquino also encouraged the riding public to get their second booster shot of the COVID-19 vaccine, stressing that booster shots can significantly increase immunity against the virus.

The Department of Health (DOH) recently issued new guidelines on the administration of the second booster shot to the general adult population through local government units.

“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,” Aquino said. — DVM, GMA Integrated News