MANILA, Nov. 3 -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has issued guidelines on the voluntary wearing of masks in workplaces nationwide.

The measure is stipulated in Labor Advisory No. 22 dated Nov. 2 and signed by Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma.

"This Advisory shall cover all workers and workplaces in the private sector. The wearing of face masks in workplaces shall be voluntary," it added.

However, the DOLE said the mandatory mask rule will remain in effect in three places.

These areas are healthcare facilities, including, but not limited to, clinics, hospitals, laboratories, nursing homes, and dialysis clinics; medical transport vehicles, such as ambulance and paramedic rescue vehicles; and public transportation by land, ai...