Philippines’ COVID-19 testing capacity now at 12,000 -Dizon

Published May 08, 2020 12:40 PM By VIRGIL LOPEZ, GMA News

The Philippines can now conduct 12,000 tests for COVID-19 a day as it ramps up its testing capacity in order to immediately isolate and treat patients.

This was disclosed by National Task Force Against COVID-19 deputy chief implementer Vince Dizon in a televised briefing on Friday, hours after he and other government officials visited a mega swabbing center at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

The other mega swabbing centers are located at the Palacio de Maynila in Pasay City, the Enderun Tent in Taguig City, and the Philippine Sports Stadium in Philippine Arena in Bulacan.

The government aims to conduct 5,000 tests per day in all four swabbing centers, and a total of 30,000 tests  per day by the end of May.

“Sa susunod na linggo, makukuha na natin ang target natin na 5,000 tests a day kapag fully operational na lahat ang ating mga swabbing center,” Dizon said. “Bini-build up [din] natin ang ating laboratory capacity.”

As of May 6, there were over 131,000 individuals which have undergone the COVID-19 test nationwide, according to the Department of Health. There are 23 accredited laboratories in the country which conduct PCR-based tests.

Dizon also said nearly 800 government workers have volunteered to work at the swabbing centers as encoders and barcoders.

Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea earlier directed Cabinet members to each submit to the Office of the President a list of at least 100 personnel who will be assigned at the swabbing centers.

Medialdea said the government workers will receive necessary training, protective medical equipment, accommodation, food, and transportation to and from the mega swabbing centers.

These government employees will also receive COVID-19 hazard pay and/or special risk allowance.

The government will need 1,500 people to run the mega swabbing centers. —AOL, GMA News

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