Philippines logs 751 more COVID-19 cases, total breaches 19,000

The Philippines on Wednesday logged 751 more cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)—221 “fresh” or newly validated and 530 reported late—bringing the total to 19,748.

The Department of Health (DOH) also reported that total recoveries rose to 4,153 after 90 more patients recovered from the respiratory illness, while the death toll climbed to 974 with eight new fatalities.

Among the fresh cases, 68 were from Metro Manila, 102 were from Region VII, while the remaining 51 were spread out across the country.

Among the late cases, 174 came from Metro Manila, 240 were from Region VII, 11 were repatriates, and the 105 other patients came from various areas nationwide.

“Ang mataas na late cases na galing sa Region VII ay dahil kahapon lang nakapag-submit ng accomplishment reports ang isa sa mga laboratoryo natin mula pa noong May 20,” Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said.

There are also 13,969 active cases undergoing treatment or quarantine, 13,095 of which are mild, 795 are asymptomatic, while 60 are severe and 19 are in critical condition.

As of June 2, the Philippines has 40 certified polymerase chain reaction facilities and 12 GeneXpert laboratories.

A total of 335,726 individuals have been tested as of June 1.

The DOH earlier said 38 of the 42 operational laboratories have submitted complete line lists and daily accomplishment reports as of June 1, which would help speed up the clearing of case validation backlogs. —LDF, GMA News