Gordon says widespread COVID-19 testing key to economic revival

Senator Richard J. Gordon emphasized that widespread COVID-19 testing is crucial for the Philippines to revive its economy.

Gordon, who also chairs the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), stated that the current national testing rate is only 0.4%, significantly below the WHO's recommended 13%.

He highlighted the PRC's newly opened molecular laboratory in Port Area, Manila, which is the largest in the country and can test up to 14,000 samples daily.

This expanded testing capacity will aid in quickly identifying and isolating positive cases, allowing negative individuals to return to work.

The PRC's Manila laboratory, accredited by the Department of Health, has already processed over 18,000 samples.

The PRC has conducted 26% of all COVID-19 tests nationwide and operates other testing centers in Mandaluyong City, Pampanga, and Zambales.