The spread of COVID-19 brought an increasing demand for precautionary products such as face masks. This had led to the availability of a variety of face masks for the public. Objective: The study aimed to determine whether the perceived effectiveness, current knowledge, as well as the face mask?s essential and dispensable features distinguish between users who prefer to use either medical-grade face masks or cloth face masks against COVID-19 transmission. Study Design: The study was both quantitative and descriptive in nature as it gathered quantifiable information through a survey questionnaire for statistical analysis of a population sample. A total of 225 respondents from three cities in the National Capital Region with the highest COVID-19 cases participated in the study. Data gathered were subjected to binary logistic regression analysis. Results: The study revealed that the determinants namely, current knowledge, face mask?s essential features and dispensable features can distinguish between users who prefer to use either a medical-grade face mask or cloth mask. Perceived effectiveness does not distinguish the face mask preference between users. Conclusions: Individuals who prioritized face masks? essential features preferred medical-grade face masks, whereas individuals who favored face mask?s dispensable features preferred cloth face masks. Recommendations: It is recommended that interventions that aim to raise awareness on the proper use of face masks be done.

COVID-19

preference

medical-grade face mask

cloth face mask