Batanes records first COVID-19 case

Batanes province has recorded its first case of COVID-19 — a locally stranded individual (LSI) who arrived there on September 22, according to the provincial government on Tuesday.

In a post on Facebook, the provincial information desk of Batanes said the patient, who is asymptomatic, arrived via the Philippine Air Force.

"The patient is currently with no symptoms, however for precautionary measure, the patient is under strict isolation at the Batanes Resort and being strictly observed and managed," it said

It added that the identified close contacts of the patient, as well as other LSIs under quarantine "are being strictly monitored by the COVID-19 Task Group."

"In the meantime, we remind everyone to continuously observe minimum public health standards such as wearing of face masks and face shields, observe physical distancing and practice proper hygiene," the local government said.

The Philippines has logged 307,288 COVID-19 cases as of Monday afternoon, still the highest across Southeast Asia. —KBK, GMA News