Heroes Hall, Malacañan Palace
February 3, 2020

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte assured the Filipino public there is nothing to worry about amidst the threat of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (nCoV) as the government is taking preventive measures and efforts to contain the virus.

In a press conference right after a closed door meeting with concerned agencies on the 2019-nCoV, President Duterte said that should the country experience an outbreak, some of the measures that would be undertaken is to provide more facilities that shall isolate the infected persons.

“If it comes to the fore requiring the quarantine of persons, either local or foreigners, I have directed Secretary Duque here to prepare a space, a ward in our hospital or a separate room – building room – where we can house them,” the President said.

Among those being considered is the drug rehabilitation facility in Nueva Ecija donated by a Chinese philanthropist that can serve as a quarantine and treatment area.

In an effort to prevent the community spread of the 2019-nCoV, President Duterte called on the local government units (LGUs) across the country to cooperate with the Department of Health (DOH) and other concerned agencies regarding any reports on the virus.

Moreover, on the issue of facial masks shortage, the President said that he already instructed the DOH to procure more supplies as demand increases.

“If you are asking is government doing something to buy more to protect more? Yes, we are doing it. We are not just sitting down here. That’s why we called for this conference and we have resources coming in,” he stated.

Likewise, the Chief Executive guaranteed the public that government will be transparent in its reportage of the latest information and updates regarding the 2019 Novel Coronavirus.

In the latest press briefing conducted by the DOH, there are two (2) confirmed cases of the 2019-nCoV in the Philippines. Likewise, there are 80 persons under investigation (PUI), 67 of which are in strict monitoring.

The DOH called on the Filipino public to remain vigilant and always maintain preventive measures such as frequent hand washing and keeping a healthy lifestyle.

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