Zero coronavirus deaths in Las Piñas since July 16

MANILA, Philippines — The city health office of Las Piñas has recorded no deaths due to the new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) for the past six days.

Based on its Wednesday bulletin, the number of COVID-19 fatalities in the city have remained at 43 since July 16.

The city has so far recorded 856 confirmed cases with 450 recoveries.

In a previous statement, Mayor Mel Aguilar attributed the high recovery and low mortality rates to continuous “expanded targeted testing.”

Las Piñas was among the first local governments to conduct mass testing, starting as early as mid-April.

Initially, it tested only those who were symptomatic, had a travel history to a place with a COVID-19 outbreak, health workers and vulnerable groups.

Asymptomatics who were close contacts of positive patients, city hall personnel, tricycle drivers and other front-liners such as law enforcement officers and teachers were later included.

—Dexter Cabalza