Duterte orders gov't transparency on COVID-19

President Duterte has ordered all government agencies to be completely transparent with the public about the COVID-19 situation following the confirmation of two new cases in the Philippines.

Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo stated that the President believes the Filipino people have a right to be informed about the circumstances surrounding the disease.

Panelo assured that any local transmission of COVID-19 in the country would be promptly and clearly reported to the public.

The public is urged not to spread unverified information and to rely on official sources like the Department of Health (DOH) for accurate updates to prevent unnecessary panic.

The DOH is actively monitoring individuals under investigation, conducting contact tracing, and coordinating with local government units to implement infection prevention and control protocols.

The DOH is also in communication with international counterparts regarding foreigners who tested positive for COVID-19 after visiting the Philippines.

Malacañang reminded citizens to practice personal protective measures, including frequent hand-washing, proper cough etiquette, and maintaining distance from those with respiratory symptoms, to help combat the spread of the virus.