Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, who chairs the Senate Committee on Health and Demography and a health reforms crusader, has welcomed the Department of Health’s (DOH) assurance that there is no need to panic over the detection of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in the Philippines. The DOH clarified that the virus, which has caused a rise in respiratory infections in other countries, poses no severe threat akin to COVID-19.
However, Senator Go emphasized the importance of staying vigilant while following health protocols to prevent further spread of respiratory illnesses.
“Huwag nating ipagwalang-bahala ang mga ganitong sakit. Simple lang ang paraan para makaiwas—maghugas ng kamay, umiwas sa matataong lugar, at panatilihing malakas ang resistensya,” he said.
Infectious disease specialist Dr. Rontgene Solante supported the DOH’s reassurances, stating, “This is not something new that we can compare with COVID. The hospitalization rate and severe cases for HMPV are much lower.” He explained that while mild symptoms like cough, colds, and sore throat are common, the virus rarely leads to severe complications.
Health Secretary Ted Herbosa also reported that only 5.8 percent of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) cases in 2024 were due to HMPV, with no unusual clusters observed. He reminded the public to maintain hygiene and take precautions, particularly those who are vulnerable.
Senator Go underscored the need for stronger public health measures. He highlighted his legislative efforts to enhance healthcare access, including the establishment of more Malasakit Centers and Super Health Centers.
“Ang kalusugan ng ating mga kababayan ay dapat laging inuuna. Kasama tayo sa pagsisigurong sapat ang serbisyo para sa lahat,” Go said. “Patuloy tayong magtutulungan upang mapanatili ang kalusugan ng bawat Pilipino.”
Malasakit Centers are one-stop shops aiming to support impoverished patients in reducing their hospital costs to the least possible amount. Go is the principal author and sponsor of Republic Act No. 11463 or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which institutionalized the Malasakit Centers program.
As of now, 166 Malasakit Centers are operational across the country, poised to assist with patients’ medical expenses. The DOH reports that the Malasakit Center program has already provided aid to more than 15 million Filipinos.
Meanwhile, Super Health Centers are designed to focus on primary care, consultation, and early disease detection, further strengthening the healthcare sector in the country, especially in grassroots communities.
Meanwhile, Senator Go is also advocating for the passage of his filed Senate Bill No. 195, which seeks to establish the Philippine Center for Disease Control (CDC). The CDC would serve as the country’s central hub for disease prevention, surveillance, and control, modeled after successful examples in other nations. Once operational, the CDC is expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing the country’s preparedness and response to both infectious and non-communicable diseases.
“Kung may maayos tayong sentro para sa disease control, mas mabilis nating malalabanan ang mga health emergencies. Hindi na natin kailangang umasa sa ibang bansa para sa agarang tugon sa mga krisis sa kalusugan,” Go noted.
Another legislative priority linked to health security is his filed Senate Bill No. 196, which proposes the creation of the Virology Science and Technology Institute. The institute aims to expand the country’s capacity to study and combat emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases, ensuring the Philippines is better equipped to address future pandemics.
“Mas mabuti na handa tayo. Mas mabuti nga makagawa tayo ng sarili nating bakuna para hindi tayo umaasa sa ibang bansa,” he stressed.
The senator also called on the public to consult doctors immediately if they experience symptoms, stressing the importance of early detection. “Hindi na kailangang maghintay ng malala pa bago magpatingin. Ang maagang aksyon ang pinakamabisang solusyon,” he added.
As the country enters a period of heightened respiratory infections typical for the season, health experts reminded the public of basic preventive measures. Frequent handwashing, wearing masks in crowded places, and maintaining a balanced diet are crucial to reducing the risk of infections.
The DOH remains vigilant in monitoring HMPV cases nationwide and has assured the public of its preparedness to manage any developments. Meanwhile, Senator Go reaffirmed his commitment to supporting measures that safeguard public health and well-being.
“Hindi lang responsibilidad ng gobyerno ang kalusugan; ito ay tungkulin nating lahat,” Senator Go concluded. “Magkaisa tayo para sa mas malusog na bayan.”
