Dumaguete identified as COVID-19 hotspot outside Metro Manila

Dumaguete City in Negros Oriental is identified as the area of most serious concern outside of Metro Manila due to a high COVID-19 case growth rate, according to OCTA Research.

The city recorded a 129% one-week case growth rate and an average daily attack rate (ADAR) of 69.85 per 100,000 population, placing it in the 'extremely high risk' category.

Hospital bed occupancy in Dumaguete stood at 68%, with ICU bed occupancy reaching a critical 84%.

OCTA Research also highlighted Iloilo City, Butuan, Tacloban, and Polomolok for their rising COVID-19 cases, high hospital occupancy, and ADAR.

These flagged areas, including Iloilo City with 99% ICU bed occupancy, are experiencing high risk levels with over 70% hospital bed utilization.

Additionally, Tagum, Legazpi City, and Tagbilaran are noted as emerging COVID-19 hotspots due to rapid case growth or very high ADAR.

Several other cities, including Davao City, General Santos City, Tuguegarao, and Koronadal, are experiencing critical ICU occupancy rates above 85%.