443 new cases raise Philippines’ COVID-19 tally over 24,000

The number of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases in the Philippines breached the 24,000 mark on Thursday after the Department of Health (DOH) reported 443 more infections—253 “fresh” or newly validated and 190 reported late—bringing the total to 24,175.

Total recoveries also rose to 5,165 after a record-high 270 more patients recovered from the respiratory disease, while the death toll climbed to 1,036 with nine more fatalities.

Among the fresh cases, 35 are from Metro Manila, 66 are from Region VII, while the remaining 152 are spread out across the country.

Among the late cases, 48 are from Metro Manila, six are from Region VII, while the 136 other patients came from various areas nationwide.

As of June 10, the Philippines has 42 certified polymerase chain reaction facilities and 14 GeneXpert laboratories that have tested a total of 425,734 individuals.

Earlier on Thursday, experts from the University of the Philippines (UP) said COVID-19 cases in the country could reach 40,000 by June 30 based on the current trend of transmission. 

The DOH said it is partnering with UP experts in analyzing COVID-19 data and making policy recommendations to the national government. —LDF, GMA News