UP experts: PH to hit 150,000 COVID cases by Aug 31

Experts from the University of the Philippines (UP) project that the Philippines could reach 150,000 COVID-19 cases by the end of August.

This projection is based on the observed exponential growth of infections in the country.

The UP OCTA research team stated that the number of cases could reach 150,000 with 3,000 deaths by August 31 if government response efforts are implemented strictly and effectively.

A less effective implementation of the general community quarantine (GCQ) could result in an additional 20,000 cases.

As of July 30, the Philippines had a total of 89,374 COVID-19 cases, with 22,327 active cases and nearly 2,000 deaths.

The research team recommended either reinstating a modified enhanced community quarantine in Metro Manila or retaining the GCQ with enhanced localized lockdowns and stricter testing, tracing, and isolation measures.