Rep. Pulong Duterte distributes face masks amid nCoV scare

Davao City first district Representative Paolo "Pulong" Duterte distributed approximately 9,500 face masks to residents in various locations across the city to address the growing demand caused by the novel Coronavirus (nCoV) scare.

The distribution took place at key hubs including the Davao City Overland Transport Terminal, Davao City Hall, Sangguniang Panlungsod, Southern Philippines Medical Center, Davao International Airport, and 54 barangays within the first district.

Duterte stated that the initiative aims to help Dabawenyos who are having difficulty purchasing face masks due to the high demand and scarcity.

He emphasized that the distribution was not intended to cause panic but rather to provide a needed commodity for his constituents.

The congressman advised the public against panicking and stressed the importance of maintaining proper hygiene, such as regular handwashing and keeping their surroundings clean, as masks alone are insufficient protection.

Meanwhile, Mayor Sara Duterte warned against alleged overpricing of face masks in the city and stated that the issue would be brought to the Department of Trade and Industry.

Davao City has not reported any confirmed cases of nCoV, although several individuals are under monitoring for flu-like symptoms.