PNP records 159 new COVID-19 cases, bringing total infections to 33,975

The Philippine National Police (PNP) now has a total of 33,975 COVID-19 cases among its personnel after 159 new infections were reported on Friday.

In an update, the PNP said 32,095 have already recovered from the disease while 1,778 are still active cases.

The death toll among PNP due to COVID-19 remained at 102, according to the PNP.

On Wednesday, the PNP identified the latest fatality as a 34-year-old police staff sergeant assigned in a National Support Unit stationed in Central Visayas.

PNP chief Police General Guillermo Eleazar said the cop died on August 25 due to pneumonia and acute respiratory failure secondary to COVID-19.

On August 18, the police staff sergeant experienced mild symptoms of COVID-19 and then underwent an RT-PCR test which turned positive.

When he experienced difficulty breathing on August 20, he was immediately transferred to a nearby hospital, the PNP said.

On August 25, he was declared dead by his attending physician, according to the PNP.

"Taos pusong pakikiramay po ang aking pinapaabot sa pamilya ng ating pulis na namatay at nangangako po tayo ng anumang tulong sa kanila," Eleazar said.

(I am sending my heartfelt condolences to the family of the cop who died and we are assuring them of any assistance.) —Joviland Rita/KBK, GMA News