THE Department of Health (DOH) urged Metro Manilans to undergo tuberculosis (TB) screening following reports that TB incidence in the National Capital Region has breached the 100,000-mark this year.
Data from the agency’s Epidemiology Bureau showed 101,807 TB cases in the NCR during the first 1.5 months of 2026 or as of February 16.
In a statement, DOH-Metro Manila Center for Health Development (MMCHD) regional director Lester Tan said TB i is curable.
“It is nothing to be feared, and certainly nothing to be ashamed of. The situation only becomes more difficult when it is hidden or when treatment is delayed,” Tan said.
The DOH said more than 3.1 million Filipinos have undergone TB screening following intensification of the nationwide campaign against the disease.
The DOH-MMCHD is also pushing for wider implementation of TB Preventive Treatment for high-risk individuals and vulnerable sectors.
The agency likewise urged the public to watch out for symptoms such as a cough lasting more than two weeks, chest pain, fever, and excessive sweating.
“Our goal is one—a community that is more informed, more cautious, and more ready to act for the health of everyone. Let us remember, the fight against TB is a fight for every Filipino, regardless of age, regardless of sector,” Tan said.
