Author: Selena Alzate

In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court has affirmed the authority of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to regulate tobacco products.  This includes heated and novel products like vapes. The decision has been hailed a victory for public health, particularly for its potential to mitigate the harmful effects of tobacco consumption in the Philippines.

Manila’s city government, under the leadership of Mayor Honey Lacuna, is taking significant steps to improve the health and well-being of its elderly. In her recent State of the City Address on 30th July, Mayor Lacuna highlighted the administration’s commitment to health programmes for 180,000 senior citizens. 

Deputy Majority Leader Erwin Tulfo has called on PhilHealth to expand its coverage to include the costs of treatment for leptospirosis and tetanus. This appeal has been made in light of the frequent natural disasters affecting the nation. 

In a significant stride towards enhancing public health safety, researchers from the University of the Philippines-Manila have unveiled a pioneering point-of-care testing (POCT) device. This device is capable of detecting selected new psychoactive substances (NPS), commonly known as “designer drugs.”

In a devastating incident in Lamitan, Basilan, two children tragically lost their lives, and three others were hospitalised after consuming pufferfish, known locally as “butete.” 

The Department of Agriculture (DA) has moved to clarify the status of a potential avian influenza (AI) outbreak in Tarlac province. Recent media reports suggested the presence of bird flu, leading to public concern. However, the DA and the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) have confirmed that no notification of an outbreak has been received from the local government.

Several areas in Cavite are to be impacted by an oil spill from MT Terranova, which sank off Lamao Point in Bataan. The University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute (UP MSI) forecasted that the oil spill would reach Metro Manila by 1 am on Tuesday, 30 July, affecting Noveleta, Rosario, Tanza, Naic, and Ternate in Cavite.

A tragic incident occurred in Tondo, Manila, as a man was fatally electrocuted amid heavy flooding. The electrocution incident has brought to light the dangers posed by electrical hazards during floods. It also reminded authorities of the need for public safety awareness.

The Oropouche virus (OROV) has recently become a significant concern following the first reported deaths in Brazil. As this arbovirus gains attention, understanding the transmission, symptoms, and implications of Oropouche Virus is crucial for public health.

In the bustling urban centres and tranquil rural areas of the Philippines, a silent epidemic is taking hold: loneliness.