More provinces confirm mpox cases, No lockdown yet

The Department of Health (DOH) has dismissed social media rumors about a nationwide lockdown beginning June 10 due to rising monkeypox (mpox) cases, calling them “fake news.” 

DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa clarified there is no plan for a lockdown, as the situation does not qualify as an outbreak. 

Herbosa emphasized that mpox is primarily spread through skin-to-skin contact, unlike airborne diseases such as COVID-19. “There is no reason to have a lockdown,” he said during a press briefing, adding that such extreme measures are only used in severe scenarios. 

Meanwhile, various provinces have reported cases or initiated preventive measures. In Southern Leyte, Maasin City will implement stricter health protocols starting June 3, including mask-wearing and physical distancing. Cotabato’s health office has mandated masks inside all medical facilities, while Aurora and Cabanatuan City have reported confirmed cases, all with no community transmission.

Health authorities continue to urge calm and adherence to basic safety practices. The DOH emphasized the importance of responsible information sharing to avoid panic and to support efforts to control the virus’s spread.