Philippines reports 1470 new COVID-19 cases, recoveries reach 420K

As of Thursday, December 17, the number of Filipinos infected with COVID-19 abroad increased to 12,577 after 47 new cases were reported.

In the Philippines, the total number of confirmed cases rose to 454,447 due to 1,470 new infections, while recoveries reached 419,902 with 633 more patients recovering.

The death toll in the country increased to 8,850 after 17 additional fatalities were recorded, and there are currently 25,695 active cases.

Health authorities warned of a potential surge in infections over the holiday season, cautioning that it could be as severe as what was experienced by the US and Canada post-Thanksgiving.