Palace admits PH likely to hit 85k COVID-19 cases by July 31

Malacañang acknowledged that the Philippines will likely not prevent COVID-19 cases from reaching the University of the Philippines' (UP) projected 85,000 by July 31.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque expressed sadness over the situation, stating there is no reason to celebrate as the forecast appears to be accurate.

He also retorted to critics by saying, "You got want you wanted."

UP researchers revised their forecast upwards to 85,000 due to the observed transmission rate, doubling time of the virus, and increased public movement during general community quarantine.

As of July 28, the Philippines had recorded 83,673 confirmed COVID-19 cases and 1,947 deaths.

Roque reiterated that the increase in reported cases is partly due to the country's improved testing capacity and expressed hope that Metro Manila could replicate Cebu's success in reducing transmission.