DOH confirms new COVID-19 variant P3, reports 1st P.1 case

On Saturday, March 13, the Department of Health confirmed the detection of a new COVID-19 variant called P3 in local samples.

The DOH clarified that it is more accurately described as a variant first reported in the Philippines rather than a Philippine variant.

Scientists noted that viruses naturally mutate and form variants with similar mutations.

To date, the Philippines has reported three 'variants of concern' (VOCs): UK (B117) with 177 cases, South African (B1351) with 90 cases, and Brazil (P1) with one case.

The DOH also reported the first case of P.1 variant in a returning overseas Filipino from Western Visayas who had traveled to Brazil.

Additional information about this case is currently being investigated by health authorities.