Philippine News Agency
Metro Manila residents don’t need N95 face masks: DOH
The Department of Health (DOH) is urging Metro Manila residents not to panic buy N95 masks, as these are prioritized for communities directly impacted by the Taal Volcano's ash explosion.
Health Assistant Secretary Maria Francia Laxamana stated that surgical masks are sufficient for Metro Manila residents due to less intense ashfall in the region.
Residents in high-risk areas of Batangas and Cavite should be prioritized for N95 mask distribution.
Panic buying in Metro Manila has led to dwindling supplies, preventing those most in need from obtaining the necessary protective gear.
The DOH has initiated emergency purchases of N95 masks but requires more supply to meet demand.
Distributions have begun at evacuation centers, with plans to expand to Laguna and Quezon if ashfall reaches those areas.
President Duterte previously announced free face mask distribution for the less fortunate and considered price caps to combat hoarding and overpricing.
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Supplies of face masks have run out in many stores in Metro Manila, nearby provinces in the south, and Antipolo City as Taal Volcano continued to spew ash.
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The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) assures the public of a stable supply of N95 and N88 face masks during the Taal Volcano eruption.
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The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is monitoring market prices for face masks following the Taal Volcano eruption, with N95 masks selling for P120 to P150 and surgical masks increasing from P1 to P4.
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Manila Vice Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan ordered an investigation into reports of overpriced N95 masks being sold for up to P200 each following the ashfall from Taal Volcano's eruption.
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The Department of Health (DOH) has intensified its response to the Taal Volcano eruption by sending additional medical supplies and personnel to affected regions.
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