Manila: Manila Mayor Francisco 'Isko' Moreno Domagoso on Wednesday assured the public that the local government has sufficient stocks of free antibiotics to treat leptospirosis as cases continue to rise.

According to Philippines News Agency, Mayor Domagoso emphasized the availability of 389,000 doxycycline capsules, which residents across all economic backgrounds can access. The mayor urged those exposed to floodwaters to visit any of the city's 44 health centers or seven district hospitals for free doxycycline, even if they are not yet experiencing symptoms, in line with health professionals' advice.

The mayor reported five deaths due to leptospirosis this week, with one fatality on August 24 and two deaths each on August 25 and 26. Domagoso expressed his condolences to the families affected by these recent deaths.

The city has recorded a total of 197 leptospirosis cases, including 89 new cases on August 26. Mayor Domagoso also warned that the number of cases is likely to rise further, as leptospirosis has a two-week incubation period.