The Department of Health (DOH) encouraged the public to give presents that promote good health and healthy lifestyle for their loved ones during this Christmas season.
“When planning for the holiday gift-giving, think of ligtas na regalo - which gifts can make them safe," said DOH Secretary Francisco Duque III.
“This Christmas, let us be creative by providing our loved ones with gifts that promote a healthy lifestyle or can help improve their health condition,” he added.
The number one recommendation of the DOH for Christmas presents is face mask.
“One thing we recommend are face masks which may serve as a constant reminder to the recipient to wear one,” said Duque.
“Aside from face masks and face shields, healthy food and fruits, exercise gadgets/equipment that promote physical activity and help improve body resistance against diseases may also be given as holiday presents,” he added.
Duque also encouraged “do-it-yourself (DIY) gifts to limit in-store shopping.”
“We can also give DIY gifts that will not require us to go shopping, like handmade cards, arts and crafts, or a video,” said the Health chief.
“Such gifts make it more personal and also keep you from going to crowded places, thus reducing the risk of acquiring or transmitting the virus. After all, a safer holiday celebration is the best gift we can give to our loved ones,” he added.
New Year’s celebration
The DOH also discouraged the use of whistles and trumpets as noise makers during the New Year’s celebration.
“Maliban sa paputok, iwasan natin ang paggamit ng mga torotot at mga katulad nito para mapigilan natin ang posibleng pagkakahawa ng COVID-19 at iba pang sakit.,” said Duque.
This is because the virus that causes COVID-19 can be transferred to these kinds of items, said Duque.
“Humanap tayo ng malikhaing alternatibo sa paputok gaya ng mga tambol, busina, o pagpapalakpak ,” he added.
DOH Undersecretary Myrna Cabotaje urged the public to strictly follow the minimum health standards to avoid virus transmission.
“Given the pandemic, we must continue to adhere to minimum health standards, such as use of face masks, sanitizing hands, and maintaining physical distancing,” she said.