In commemoration of the World TB Day on March 29, 2016, the Tropical Disease Foundation, together with the Global TB Alliance, launched Takpan ang Ubo (Cover Your Cough). Designed to help decrease transmission of TB in households and communities as well as to encourage people to go to DOTS clinics and health centers for early diagnosis, the project was piloted in Barangay Pio del Pilar, Makati City.

On March 28, a health-teaching seminar was conducted at the barangay hall targeting children, mothers, and local health workers.  The session focused on reinforcing education on TB signs and symptoms, transmission, and what to do if TB infection is suspected.  A short discussion on research and developments in TB management in the country was also conducted to update the participants on the latest developments in the fight against the disease.

In order to optimize project reach, on World TB Day, a vehicle equipped with a public address system and informational banners went around barangay Pio Del Pilar, making stops at pre-designated areas for a few minutes, enabling the people in the vicinity to hear the Takpan ang Ubo jingle as well as allowing TDF personnel to distribute brochures which included information on TB, its signs and symptoms, as well as information on where to go for diagnosis/treatment.  The Takpan ang Ubo jingle used was prepared by TDF for the project.

Aside from the brochures, tissues packets with the TDF DOTS Clinic contact information were also handed out to enable people to practice cough etiquette and encourage them to consult their local health center or nearest DOTS clinic. The stickers on the packets also reminded people to Cover Your Cough and do your part in the fight to End TB.