Iloilo City: The city government plans to request authorization from the Department of Health (DOH) to designate the Uswag Molecular Laboratory as the testing center for suspected mpox cases in Panay.

According to Philippines News Agency, Mayor Jerry Tre±as announced at a press conference that the medical technologists at the Uswag Molecular Laboratory were trained two years ago to test mpox specimens, and the facility is fully equipped for this purpose, except for the test kits. "Considering that we are trained, we have the necessary personnel. As long as they give us kits, we can test for the whole of Panay if necessary. I hope DOH will listen to us," Tre±as stated.

The mayor highlighted the delays in obtaining laboratory results due to long queues at the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine in Manila, pointing out that testing at the Uswag Molecular Laboratory could expedite the process, taking only two to three days. He expressed concern that delays in testing could lead to more people unknowingly transmitting mpox as they continue their daily activities.

Tre±as mentioned his intention to sign a letter to the DOH, seeking approval for the laboratory's expanded role. The City Health Office has reported six mpox cases, with four confirmed in the laboratory and two suspected cases awaiting confirmatory results from the RITM.

Since the previous day, Tre±as has been in discussions with the task force on mpox, focusing on educating the public about the viral disease, its health risks, transmission methods, and preventive measures. "What is important is we recognize this as a threat. We should understand what it is," the mayor emphasized, stressing the importance of awareness and education in combating the spread of mpox.