Cebu City may be PH's next COVID-19 hotspot

Cebu City might become the Philippines' next COVID-19 hotspot due to a rising number of cases, according to a special adviser to the National Task Force against COVID-19.

Dr. Ted Herbosa noted that while Metro Manila's cases are decreasing, Cebu City's are on the rise, with Region 8 also showing an alarming increase attributed mainly to the Balk Probinsya program and returning OFWs.

A significant number of cases in Region 8 have been traced back to Cebu City, which serves as a major trading hub in the Visayas.

Herbosa suggested that allowing individuals with mild COVID-19 symptoms to undergo home quarantine, instead of isolation in dedicated facilities, has contributed to the rapid transmission within Cebu City.

He pointed out that if home environments are not conducive to quarantine, it can lead to increased transmission among household members.

However, Cebu City has since revised its policies and now has community quarantine centers available for use.

Herbosa emphasized that the previous quarantine measures were not futile, as their aim was to slow down the virus and prepare testing and isolation facilities.