The Department of Health (DOH) announced on Monday, May 18, 2026, that it is on high alert following the World Health Organization's (WHO) declaration of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) regarding the Bundibugyo ebolavirus. The DOH stated that it is fully prepared to address any potential threat and is maintaining close coordination with the WHO.
DOH Preparedness and Coordination
In an official statement, the DOH emphasized its readiness and vigilance. "The DOH is always ready and on alert. We have been notified through the International Health Regulations (IHR) channels, and are in active coordination with the WHO," the department said. This proactive approach ensures that the Philippines can respond swiftly if needed.
No Immediate Threat to the Philippines
Despite the heightened alert, the DOH reassured the public that there is no cause for alarm regarding the Bundibugyo ebolavirus. The current threat is concentrated in countries that share land borders with the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda, where the outbreak is occurring. "The PHEIC declaration is most important for countries sharing land borders with the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda, where the event is occurring," the DOH explained.
The department further clarified that the WHO's advice for countries like the Philippines, which do not share land borders with affected nations and have no reported cases of Bundibugyo, is focused on adequate information dissemination. "The general public should be provided with accurate and reliable information on the Bundibugyo outbreak and ongoing measures to reduce risk," the DOH added.
WHO Declaration Details
Over the weekend, the WHO declared a PHEIC in response to the spread of the Bundibugyo ebolavirus in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda. However, the WHO clarified that this PHEIC does not meet the criteria of a pandemic emergency, indicating that the situation is regionally contained and does not pose a global pandemic threat at this time.
The DOH continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as necessary. The public is encouraged to stay informed through official channels and to rely on verified information from health authorities.
