DOH Denies Lockdown Rumors Amidst Rising Mpox Cases in the Philippines

The Philippines' Department of Health (DOH) has dismissed online rumors circulating about an imminent nationwide lockdown due to the rising number of Mpox (monkeypox) cases. The DOH clarified that Mpox is not spread through the air, but through close contact, negating the need for a lockdown. "Lockdown does not work for Mpox," stated Sec. Ted Herbosa, Department of Health. The DOH's statement is supported by the relatively low number of cases reported. As of May 29th, 2025, there were 911 confirmed cases nationwide. Even in Cebu City, which has seen a cluster of cases, the situation remains manageable. The city has recorded only three confirmed cases, all of whom have recovered and lacked recent international travel history. The DOH is conducting contact tracing to prevent further spread. The calm and reassuring tone of the DOH's message is intended to counter the panic caused by the false lockdown rumors. The continued focus on contact tracing demonstrates a proactive approach to managing the situation.