South Cotabato, Philippines — Following the confirmation of two monkeypox (mpox) cases in Davao City, Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. assures that South Cotabato is fully prepared to respond should a health emergency arise.
Mpox is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus, in which common symptoms include fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a distinct rash that can spread across the body.
The disease spreads through close contact with an infected person, contaminated materials, or respiratory droplets in prolonged face-to-face exposure.
While there is currently no direct threat to the province of South Cotabato, Governor Tamayo urges residents to remain vigilant, practice basic health protocols, and maintain hygiene measures such as regular handwashing and proper sanitation.
“Kailangan talaga gawin yung mga basic na ginagawa natin during COVID times, kagaya ng paghuhugas ng kamay,” he said.
Governor Tamayo pointed out that South Cotabato’s experience during the COVID-19 pandemic has equipped the province with the necessary preparedness and discipline to face any health crisis.
“Preparado man ang South Cotabato dahil nga nasubukan na tayo during COVID-19 pandemic at hanggang ngayon dala pa rin natin ang disiplina sa pagsunod sa protocols,” he added.
Governor Tamayo also recalled how the province managed to stay resilient during the height of the pandemic, in which the systems and practices developed during that time are still in place and effective.
“Naging successful tayo sa fight against COVID-19,” Governor Tamayo affirmed. “Hanggang ngayon naniniwala ako na preparado pa rin ang ating probinsya.”
Health authorities and frontliners in the province closely monitor the situation and they are coordinating with health agencies to ensure timely updates and appropriate response if necessary.
The public and residents in South Cotabato are also encouraged to stay informed and report any symptoms or suspected cases to their nearest health facility to prevent any bigger damage from happening.
