Latest data from the Department of Health (DOH) show the total number of cases in the country increased to 12,091 after 215 new cases were reported.
The recovery tally also rose to 2,460 after 123 patients recovered, while the death toll climbed to 806 with the expiration of 16 more patients. With the rise in the number of reported cases, active cases are now at 8,825.
The DOH announced there are now 30 RT-PCR laboratories that conduct COVID-19 testing in line with the boosting of the country’s health capacity and the target to test 30,000 daily by May 30.
DOH USec. Maria Rosario Vergeire clarified that life how we used to know it, cannot return with the easing off of community quarantine in some areas. She added the new normal will remain as long as there is no vaccine and cure for the disease.
Meanwhile, the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) warned against the use of products allegedly effective in fighting COVID-19 such as Virus Shut Out, or a lanyard with sodium hypochlorite used in water disinfection.
FDA Director General Eric Domingo said these are not registered with the FDA and there are no evidence yet to prove that they can fight COVID-19. – Report from Mark Fetalco
