THE Department of Health-Metro Manila Center for Health Development (DOH-MMCHD) reported a total of 101,807 tuberculosis (TB) cases in the National Capital Region (NCR), emphasizing the need to intensify the early detection campaign. In a statement on Saturday, the DOH-MMCHD said the figure stresses the importance of early detection through screening, especially as the country prepares to observe World TB Day on March 24. DOH-MMCHD Regional Director Lester Tan said that while TB remains one of the top illnesses in the country, it can be overcome if detected early. “TB is curable. We should not be afraid of it, and even more so, be ashamed of it. It only makes the situation worse if you hide it or brush it aside,” Tan said in Filipino. The agency also urged the public to see a doctor if they experience symptoms of TB, including coughing lasting more than three weeks, chest pain, coughing up blood or sputum, fever, night sweats and weight loss. In 2025, more than 3.1 million individuals in the region were screened for TB as part of expanded case-finding efforts. The DOH-MMCHD is also promoting TB preventive treatment (TPT), particularly among high-risk groups, including close contacts of TB patients and other vulnerable populations. TPT aims to prevent the progression of latent TB infection into active disease and help break the chain of transmission in communities. “Our goal is one: a community that is more knowledgeable, more careful and more willing to act for the health of everyone. Let us remember, the fight against TB is the fight of every Filipino, regardless of age, regardless of sector,” Tan added. To further raise awareness, the agency held a “TB-Free Generation Fun Run” in Taguig City, encouraging the public to undergo screening and support TB prevention efforts.