Philippines’ COVID-19 tally tops 23,000 with 740 new cases

The number of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases in the Philippines topped 23,000 on Wednesday after the Department of Health (DOH) reported 740 more infections—452 “fresh” or newly validated and 288 reported late—bringing the total to 23,732.

Total recoveries also rose to 4,895 after a record-high 159 more patients recovered from the respiratory illness, while the death toll climbed to 1,027 with 10 new fatalities.

The highest number of new recoveries in a single day previously recorded was 145 on May 13.

Among the fresh cases, 91 are from Metro Manila, 83 are from Region VII, one is a repatriate, while the remaining 277 are spread out across the country.

Among the late cases, 100 are from Metro Manila, one is from Region VII, 45 are repatriates, while the 142 other patients came from various areas nationwide.

There are also 17,239 active cases undergoing treatment or quarantine, 16,340 of which are mild, 816 are asymptomatic, while 64 are severe and 19 are in critical condition.

As of June 9, the Philippines has 42 certified polymerase chain reaction facilities and 14 GeneXpert laboratories.

A total of 416,201 individuals have been tested for COVID-19 as of June 8.

Meanwhile, Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque earlier said the government was looking for data indicating that the easing of quarantine restrictions over Metro Manila will not cause a second wave of infections. 

President Rodrigo Duterte’s meeting with the COVID-19 task force and address to the nation were moved to June 15. —LDF, GMA News