The recent Nipah virus cases reported in India have prompted various countries to prepare for possible transmission, including the Philippines. As a country that endured thousands of deaths during the Covid-19 pandemic, we know all too well that preparedness and prevention truly matter.

We cannot afford to disregard the dark, painful, and unimaginable experiences people worldwide have gone through. 

That is why I commend the Department of Health (DoH) for its proactive measures, including the implementation of health declaration forms for arriving passengers and thermal screening. These steps, though preventive, are crucial for safeguarding public health.

At the same time, the DoH has clarified that there is no cause for undue concern, as the Nipah virus is not new to the Philippines. In fact, in 2014, 17 cases were detected in Sultan Kudarat, and no subsequent cases have been recorded since then.

Recently, Thailand, Nepal, Taiwan and Hong Kong have also strengthened health screenings for visitors from affected regions, implementing policies similar to those in place in the early days of Covid-19. These measures reflect a shared understanding that vigilance is necessary, even in the absence of an immediate threat.

As the vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health, I urge everyone to be mindful of symptoms and to avoid direct contact with animals or individuals who may be infected. Anyone experiencing high fever, nausea, vomiting, or respiratory difficulties should immediately report to the DoH or seek medical attention.

However, there is no need to panic. What is important is early detection, timely reporting, and effective coordination among authorities — key factors in preventing the spread of infectious diseases.

Furthermore, we have the Virology and Vaccine Institute of the Philippines (VIP), created under Republic Act 12290, which we principally authored and co-sponsored. The VIP law mandates the establishment of a national research institute within the Department of Science and Technology (DoST) to lead research on viruses and other pathogens affecting humans, animals, plants, and the broader environment. 

I also call on my fellow lawmakers to always be prepared for scenarios like this. Let us continue working together to pass laws that strengthen our health sector and protect not only the present generation but also future generations, especially poor Filipinos who have limited means to access the medical interventions they need.

As part of my health reforms crusade, I pay tribute to our barangay health workers, who continue to serve as the first line of support in our communities for health services. 

On 29 January, we attended the UNI Global Union Philippine Liaison Council (UNI-PLC) BHW Island Cluster Training and Planning Session at B Hotel in Quezon City to personally show our support and express our appreciation for their sacrifices and dedication.  

These individuals are our modern heroes, as they fought hard and went house to house during the Covid-19 pandemic to ensure people had their vaccines.

Meanwhile, on 28 January, I personally went to Barangay Tejeros in Makati City, together with Barangay Captain Deng Leonardo and other barangay officials, to distribute assistance to our fellow Filipinos affected by a fire.

Our team also went to the grassroots level to assist fire victims in Mandaluyong City, Manay in Davao Oriental and Iligan City. In Lebak, Sultan Kudarat, the team provided relief for earthquake victims.

As a public servant, I am committed to continuing to push for more laws that will help strengthen our health sector and ensure that no one is left behind in our quest for a better future. 

I will continue to serve our people dahil bisyo ko ang magserbisyo at naniniwala ako na ang serbisyo sa tao ay serbisyo sa Diyos.