DOH notes ‘slight decline’ in COVID-19 cases after lockdowns

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) has noted a “slight decline” in daily COVID-19 cases following the series of lockdowns implemented in the country.

The daily average was at 10,858 cases, Health Undersecretary Ma. Rosario Vergeire said last week. This week, however, the daily average is at 9,556 cases.

“Pag tiningnan natin itong tinatawag na transmission rate, nakikita natin that hindi lang dito sa past two weeks but also even previously nakikita natin bumababa [ang cases],” Vergeire said during the Laging Handa briefing.

“So ibig sabihin, aside from the ECQ na ginawa natin, mukhang nagkakaroon ng epekto even yung naumpisahan natin mga NCR Plus Bubble at localized lockdowns,” she added.

This, however, is not a reason to be complacent, Vergeire stressed.

“Gusto natin bantayan pa rin itong nakikita natin at yaw pa rin natin g maging complacent tayong lahat para tuloy-tuloy na po ito sa pagbaba,” the health undersecretary said.

The NCR Plus Bubble—which includes Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal—was initially placed under enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) from March 29 to April 4. This was extended until April 11.

Then from April 12 to April 30, the area is placed under a modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ).

Asked if the quarantine restriction has to be eased when the month ends, Vergeire said it is still being studied. A decision is expected to be made on Tuesday, April 27.

“Siyempre kapag health side ang pinag-usapan gusto po natin mas mahigpit na restrictions. Pero kailangan po natin na tingnan ‘yung ibang sektor kasi alam po natin na nagi-impact din sa health itong mga ibang sektor na ito,” Vergeire said.

/MUF