Baguio City scheduled window hours of about four hours for people of each barangay to go to the market, once a week. Those with fewer residents were lumped with another barangay. Only one from each family would go. If one had to have a driver, he stayed in the car. Those who relied on public transportation had to enlist in the barangay hall and a jeep would be available which ran at half capacity to allow for social distancing. Each passenger had to pay for one vacant seat.
And everybody had to wear face masks, whether the real one or something improvised.
So far so good. The market place was like it was deserted compared to how it was during normal days. Same thing with grocery stores. The number of people was bearable.
Then came the order of the DILG secretary to the effect that people had the right to go to the market at any time and that they did not have to wear face masks.
Good thing, it appeared that Baguio City did not stop its rule of scheduled hours to go to market, and the wearing of face masks. So there appeared a few street peddlers (here and there) selling improvised masks. Their come-on was “washable.”
And senior citizens were discouraged from going out.
Then Malacanang delivered a slap on the DILG secretary’s face which is now in effect. Everybody has to wear a face mask even if improvised. Those who cannot afford one can use a hankerchief. At least there is something to block the “aerosol” from one’s mouth or nose when sneezing or hissing or even just talking. This can block the spread of COVID-19.
As to the scheduled going to the market, it is still being implemented by Baguio City. Well and good.
The DILG secretary’s order is one reason why the Philippines is still a third world country. The government is full of people who do not know what they are talking about. Or of high ranking officials just closeted in their offices, ignorant of facts on the ground. Or some others who were appointed but do not even have common sense.
Social distancing would not be possible if there is no schedule of going to the market or grocery stores. Common sense. How about wearing of face masks? Even one with a two digit IQ would appreciate it.
A few days ago, the DILG secretary must have realized his folly. He was diagnosed to be COVID-19 positive.**