DFA Meets with DOH Officials, Experts on Measures to Protect Overseas Filipinos from Coronavirus Threat

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), led by Acting Foreign Affairs Secretary J. Eduardo Malaya, convened an emergency meeting with the health experts and officials of the Department of Health (DOH) today to discuss strategies to properly respond to the health emergency brought about by the novel coronavirus outbreak in China and other countries.

In the meeting, the DFA sought DOH’s guidance on the establishment of protocols on evacuation and repatriation of Filipinos in Wuhan City and other affected cities and provinces, as well as formulation of further health advisories for overseas Filipinos in affected countries, including DOH hotlines in every Foreign Service Post in China that they can directly call.

Health Undersecretary for Public Health Services Myrna Cabotaje advised overseas Filipinos in affected areas to avoid crowded places, use mask and gloves, and practice proper hygiene in order to reduce exposure to and transmission of said virus.

There remains to be no report of any Filipino abroad affected by the said virus.

The DFA, through its Embassies and Consulates General in China and affected areas, continues to reach out to overseas Filipinos to take necessary precautions and follow the advice from local health authorities in their area. It is also in close coordination with the Filipino communities in calling for volunteer nurses and doctors who may serve as first responders for the overseas Filipinos in affected areas. (DFA PR)