CAPIZ — The Capiz Provincial Government has implemented mandatory face mask use for all individuals entering the Provincial Capitol following a significant increase in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) cases reported across the province.
The measure is intended to safeguard the health and well-being of government employees and the public while ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of services.
The directive was issued through Memorandum Order No. 31, Series of 2026, signed by Governor Fredenil H. Castro on February 19.
Under the memorandum, all government employees and visitors are required to wear face masks upon entering the Capitol premises and while inside office spaces, particularly in enclosed or crowded areas. The policy aims to reduce the risk of illness transmission in settings where close contact is unavoidable.
Employees exhibiting symptoms such as cough, colds, sore throat, fever, and other flu-like manifestations are mandated to wear properly fitted face masks at all times while on government premises.
Symptomatic personnel are also encouraged to observe proper hygiene, seek medical consultation when necessary, and take sick leave to prioritize their health and recovery.
The memorandum further underscores the importance of maintaining workplace hygiene, including regular cleaning of work areas, frequent handwashing, and the use of hand sanitizers.
Department and office heads have been directed to ensure that the guidelines are properly disseminated and strictly enforced. They are likewise tasked with promoting adequate ventilation and sanitation in their respective offices. Any clustering of similar illness cases must be immediately reported to appropriate health authorities for prompt evaluation and response.
Provincial officials said the initiative reflects the government’s proactive approach to mitigating the effects of rising ILI cases, particularly amid fluctuating weather conditions.
They expressed hope that through collective vigilance and compliance, the province can curb the spread of the illness while maintaining efficient public service operations./PN
