DOH sees drop in RT-PCR tests nationwide

Fourteen regions across the Philippines have reported a decrease in RT-PCR tests conducted over the past week, according to the Department of Health (DOH).

The DOH noted an overall 11.8% decline in daily tests nationwide, with the National Capital Region (NCR) experiencing the most significant drop.

This reduction in testing has led to a decrease in reported positive cases, from 48,229 to 35,603.

Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire stated that the DOH is investigating the reasons behind this decline, considering factors such as ongoing case finding, contact tracing, and the use of rapid antigen tests.

Specifically, six local government units in NCR reported fewer tests, with Caloocan, Pasig, Pateros, and Mandaluyong showing a general decrease in case trends.

Parañaque cited a reduced testing capacity from the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine as the cause, while Pasay attributed its decrease in tests to a shift towards antigen testing.