Despite the increase in Covid-19 cases in some parts of the country, the Department of Health (DOH) on Saturday, Dec. 9, assured the public that the situation is "not yet alarming" and it is actively monitoring the situation.

Undersecretary Dr. Eric Tayag, in a TeleRadyo Serbisyo interview, however, emphasized the importance of caution, particularly during the holiday season, as numerous Christmas parties were anticipated.

"Ang dapat gawin ay "Christ-Mask Party," ibig sabihin ay magsuot sila ng mask (What should be done is a "Christ-Mask Party," meaning they should wear masks)," he said. 
 

Not mandatory but beneficial

While DOH recommended masking up, especially during gatherings, Tayag clarified that wearing a facemask is “not mandatory” but can be beneficial.

He expressed confidence that the prevailing virus strain was not expected to cause severe risks given the significant vaccination and booster coverage among Filipinos.

"May mga ospital din na ang kalahati sa paglalagyan ng pasyente ay unti-unti nang napupuno, pero sa pangkalahatan ay marami pa rin namang ICU kung kakailanganin (Some hospitals are gradually filling up, with about half of their patient capacity occupied, but there are still many Intensive Care Unit (ICU) beds available if needed)," Tayag said.

Addressing concerns about potential virus transmission, Tayag mentioned that understanding would be extended if the Bureau of Corrections implemented facemask-wearing in their settings.

Moreover, in public transportation such as the LRT and MRT, Tayag said that the DOH is not recommending mandatory facemask wearing. 

However, he noted that Health Chief Teodoro Herbosa reminded senior citizens, pregnant individuals, and those on maintenance medications to wear facemasks when going out or using public transportation.

Tayag emphasized that this simple measure can significantly reduce the risk of infection.
 

He also highlighted the changing climate as a contributing factor to respiratory illnesses such as influenza and pneumonia in the country.