There is a need for more Filipinos to observe social distancing amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), according to recent findings of a survey conducted by Octa Research.

Based on the research group’s independent and non-commissioned survey conducted from January 26 to February 1, only 67 percent of Filipinos surveyed said they observe physical distancing, while 60 percent said they stay at home when it is not necessary to go out.

The good news, however, is Octa’s survey showed that 91 percent of Filipinos wore face masks, 90 percent clean their hands via hand washing or alcohol, and 82 percent use face shields.

When it comes to frequency of use, Octa Research’s survey showed 89 percent of Filipinos “always” wear their face masks when going outside their homes but only 64 percent said they always wear face shields in public places.

Furthermore, 43 percent said they avoid going to crowded places while 41 percent said they avoid people who are sick.

When it comes to domestic travel, 25 percent they avoided that.

Octa’s poll covered 1,200 Filipino respondents aged 18 years old and above. It was released just as Covid-19 cases nationwide were increasing to new levels this year.

The research group warned that Covid-19 cases nationwide can reach 6,000 daily by the end of this month.