Leyte’s Provincial Board will enact two ordinances when it holds its regular session on Friday to step up the local government’s battle against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

Leyte Vice Governor Carlo Loreto said on Tuesday he would propose to the board an ordinance prescribing the mandatory wearing of face masks in the province.

Board Members Ryssa Villasin (2nd District) and Anna Veloso Tuazon (3rd District) would also push for the approval of the anti-Covid-19 discrimination ordinance, which they authored.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has urged local government units to enact an ordinance on the mandatory wearing of face masks in public.

Loreto said residents may use any kind of face mask – disposable, do-it-yourself, washable or even a handkerchief – for protection.

“The provincial government, in its second executive order related to (the) Covid-19 fight, directed all mayors and policemen to require the mandatory wearing of face mask outdoor throughout the province,” he added.

Meanwhile, the proposed Provincial Anti Covid-19 Discrimination Ordinance of 2020 prohibits making statements that would cause stigma, disgrace, shame, humiliation, and harassment to persons suspected of being Covid-19 carriers and health workers.

This includes prohibiting front-liners from entering establishments accessible to the general public, refusal to provide them with services or goods, requiring them to produce identification, and refusing them entry or evicting them from their rented dwelling or accommodation facility.

The mandatory wearing of face masks in the province and the anti-discrimination ordinances are in addition to the three previous local legislation enacted by the Provincial Board in support of the fight against Covid-19.

During its regular session last March 27, the board approved the ordinances against hoarding and panic-buying; on social and physical distancing; and on the holding of electronic sessions in Leyte. (PNA)