KORONADAL CITY , SOUTH COTABATO— Following a series of Nipah Virus cases reported in Bangladesh and flagged through the International Health Regulations (IHR), the Provincial Government of South Cotabato has moved to reassure residents that the province is fully prepared to respond should the virus reach the Philippines.
Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. emphasized that while there are no reported cases of Nipah Virus in the country or in South Cotabato, the provincial government is not taking any chances, stressing the importance of early preparedness, strict monitoring, and decisive leadership.
Tamayo said the province’s experience during the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly strengthened its capacity to manage and control emerging infectious diseases.
He noted that South Cotabato’s health systems, inter-agency coordination, and emergency response mechanisms were tested and reinforced during COVID-19 and preparations that now serve as a strong safeguard against future threats.
“COVID-ready na tayo, kaya kung sakaling may bagong banta gaya ng Nipah Virus, handa ang probinsya,” the governor said.
He added, “Naranasan na natin ang krisis noong pandemya, at alam na natin kung paano protektahan ang ating mga komunidad.”
The governor, who served as the province’s chief executive during the height of the COVID-19 crisis, said he is familiar with the critical points of disease control, including border monitoring, hospital readiness, isolation protocols, and public communication.
According to him, these lessons are now being applied in anticipatory measures against the Nipah Virus.
Tamayo further stressed that the provincial government is working to eliminate any possible opportunity for the virus to enter South Cotabato, while simultaneously preparing response plans should a case be detected.
The provincial leadership assured the public that greater management and tighter control measures are being reinforced, in coordination with national health authorities, hospitals, and local government units.
This includes heightened disease surveillance, readiness of medical facilities, and clear response protocols for suspected cases.
Under the Marcos administration, Tamayo said national and local governments remain aligned in ensuring public health security, emphasizing that the province will continue to prioritize prevention, preparedness, and protection of its people.
The provincial government also urged residents to remain calm but vigilant, follow verified health advisories, and avoid misinformation, assuring the public that timely updates will be provided should there be developments.
As global health threats continue to emerge, South Cotabato officials reiterated their commitment to swift action, effective disease management, and the safety of every South Cotabateño.
