OCTA flags 11 LGUs as high-risk for COVID-19

An independent research group, OCTA, has identified several local government units (LGUs) across the Philippines as high-risk areas for COVID-19, with some showing significant increases in daily cases and high infection or ICU utilization rates.

LGUs flagged as high-risk include Davao City, Cebu City, Iloilo City, Bacolod City, Makati City, Cagayan de Oro City, General Santos City, Baguio City, Taguig City, Laoag City, and Mariveles in Bataan.

OCTA observed a notable rise in new daily COVID-19 cases between July 14 and July 20 in Manila City, Makati City, Baguio City, and Laoag City.

Manila City saw cases increase from 82 to 109, Makati City from 55 to 74, Baguio City from 49 to 64, and Laoag City from 31 to 55.

Infection rates were reported as 'very high' in Laoag City (2.16 percent), Lapu-Lapu City (1.53 percent), and Cebu City (1.48 percent).

Laoag City and Mariveles also exhibited 'very high' incidence rates, with 47.87 and 28.53 cases per 100,000 population, respectively.

Intensive care unit (ICU) utilization remains critically high in Iloilo City at 99 percent, Taguig City at 92 percent, and Davao City at 91 percent.

The Philippines and the National Capital Region remain under 'moderate' risk.

About 54% of intensive care unit beds in the country were in use as of July 20, with 46% of isolation beds and 43% of ward beds occupied.