DOH: Omicron variant entry can only be delayed

The Department of Health (DOH) stated that the Philippines can only delay, not entirely prevent, the entry of the Omicron variant, similar to its approach with the Delta variant.

Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire explained that these measures allow the government time to prepare its systems for the potential arrival of the new variant.

Vergeire recalled that the country successfully postponed the entry of the Delta variant for at least a month, enabling crucial preparations.

The DOH is actively strengthening the nation's preparedness for Omicron's eventual detection in the country.

Stricter border controls and improved biosurveillance measures are already in place to manage potential entry.

Vergeire emphasized that while 100% prevention is impossible, the goal is to ensure the country and its citizens are ready.

Regarding the arrivals from South Africa between November 15 to 19, 80 out of 253 individuals have been verified and located, including 77 returning overseas Filipinos.