Eastern Visayas’ Health Efforts Highlighted as Escudero Urges Stronger Vigilance

Posted on Jan. 31, 2026 at 10:16 am

Tacloban City, Leyte — Former Senate President Francis “Chiz” G. Escudero encouraged health and border authorities to strengthen surveillance, preparedness, and coordination among agencies following the reemergence of global concern about the Nipah virus, a zoonotic disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans and can also be spread through contaminated food.

Escudero, in a statement, appealed to the government to ensure that preventive measures, medical supplies and response systems are not only established but also effectively utilized to prevent the possible entry and spreading of the virus in the country.

The Nipah virus was first discovered in 1998 during an outbreak among pig farmers in Malaysia. Health professionals say the disease can be transmitted through direct contact with infected animals, consumption of contaminated food, and in rare cases, human-to-human transmission.

Escudero emphasized the importance of being vigilant, not only for international travelers but also for local communities.  He highlighted the need for the government to take a long- term, sustainable perspective on public health preparedness.

He called on the Department of Health (DOH) and the Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ) to strictly enforce health screening and monitoring protocols at airports and seaports, including the use of thermal scanning, symptoms checking, and providing immediate medical assistance to travelers showing signs of infection.

In the Eastern Visayas region, major entry points such as the Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport in Tacloban City, the Port of Tacloban, and other seaports in Leyte and Samar that are connected to neighboring regions are critical for disease surveillance.

Escudero stressed the need for close coordination with local government units (LGUs), port authorities, and transport operators in these areas.

Escudero noted that the success of disease prevention measures depends on excellent coordination among different health offices, transport agencies, and LGUs.

He emphasized the importance of synchronized monitoring systems, updated data sharing, and prompt communication, especially at the regional and provincial levels.

The former senator also urged authorities to learn from past public health emergencies, including the COVID-19 pandemic, and avoid repeating past mistakes. He highlighted the role of frontline healthcare workers and LGUs in developing best practices during crises.

“Early notification and transparent reporting are key defenses against emerging health threats,” Escudero said, emphasizing the need for continuous improvement of surveillance tools and updated protocols for frontline personnel.

He further stressed the importance of clear and consistent public advisories to combat misinformation and maintain public trust, noting that calm and factual communication helps the public understand risks without causing unnecessary alarm.

As global health threats evolve, Escudero said the Philippines must remain one step ahead through preparedness, vigilance, and coordinated action.

(Photo Courtesy: Sen. Chiz Escudero FB account)