BATAAN — The provincial government here has urged the public to wear masks amid unconfirmed reports circulating on social media claiming a new wave of Covid-19 cases in Metro Manila.

Bataan Governor Joet Garcia said that while the Department of Health has earlier dismissed those reports as fake news, he is urging his constituents to wear mask as part of safety precautions against Covid-19.

"Although the situation of Covid-19  in  the province remains low risk we are urging the use of masks to protect each and every one from being infected," Garcia said.

To recall, the DoH tagged the circulating posts falsely attributed to one Dr. Ruth Divinagracia of St. Luke's Medical Center as "fake news."

"It is important to note that the message is unverified, and the doctor and hospital are not involved," the DoH said. "There is no credible evidence or official announcement from health authorities supporting the assertion of a surge in Covid-19 cases at the mentioned hospital."