Gov't eyes mass COVID-19 testing in Metro Manila by May 7

The Philippine government plans to conduct mass testing for COVID-19 in Metro Manila by May 7, according to National Task Force COVID-19 chief implementer Carlito Galvez Jr.

Metro Manila is prioritized due to its status as the "center of gravity" of the pandemic in the country.

The mass testing will include persons under investigation and monitoring, as well as front-liners.

Galvez stated that flattening the curve in NCR would mean 70% of the fight against COVID-19 is won.

Mass testing in other high-risk areas under the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine is targeted by May 15.

The national task force aims to conduct 20,000 tests daily starting May 15, increasing to 30,000 daily by May 30, with results expected within 24 to 48 hours.

All facilities will be reconfigured to adhere to the "new normal" of social and physical distancing.