Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna yesterday reminded Manilans to mask up this Christmas season due to the rising number of Covid-19 cases given the expected gatherings this Yuletide season.

 Lacuna's call was also based on the advice made by the Department of Health for the citizens to adhere to basic health standards.

The mayor stressed the need to continue wearing properly fitting masks, washing hands frequently and staying in well-ventilated areas and immediately isolating individuals displaying Covid-19 symptoms.

Lacuna said that despite the lifting of the health emergency status, there is no denying that "Covid is still here" with no less than high-profile personalities in local politics having been infected recently, among them President Marcos Jr. himself.

With Christmas just around the corner marked by crowded events and parties, Lacuna said that the risks of getting the infection naturally become high thus, the need to be extra cautious.                                    

"This appeal specially goes for those who have comorbidities or are in the senior age group who are more prone to getting infected," Lacuna said.

"Since attending gatherings cannot be helped owing to the holidays, at least be extra careful and wear a mask," she added.

She also called on Manilans to heed the advice of the DoH to wear masks when taking public transportation.