Philippines records 552 more COVID-19 cases; total up to 18,638

The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday logged 552 more cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) —119 “fresh” or newly validated and 433 reported late—bringing the total to 18,638 on Metro Manila’s first day under a more relaxed general community quarantine.

Total recoveries also rose to 3,979 after 70 more patients recovered from the respiratory illness, while the death toll climbed to 960 with three new fatalities.

Among the fresh cases, 94 were from Metro Manila, four were repatriates, one was from Region VII, while the remaining 20 were spread out across the country.

Among the late cases, 137 came from Metro Manila, 98 were from Region VII, 16 were repatriates while the remaining 182 patients were spread out across the country.

There are also 13,220 active cases undergoing treatment or quarantine, 12,285 of which are mild, 859 are asymptomatic, while 57 are severe and 19 are in critical condition.

As of May 31, the Philippines has 38 certified polymerase chain reaction facilities and 11 GeneXpert laboratories.

A total of 318,356 individuals have been tested as of May 30.

As of May 30, the Philippines has 37 certified polymerase chain reaction facilities and 11 GeneXpert laboratories that have tested a total of 318,356 individuals.

The DOH earlier told the public to expect more new COVID-19 cases in the following days as the country ramps up its testing and case validation capacity.

There are still some 6,800 test results pending validation by the DOH, according to Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire. —LDF, GMA News