House panel passes bill for free COVID-19 tests for vulnerable sectors

The House Defeat Covid-19 Committee passed House Bill 6707, or the 'Crush Covid-19 Act,' on Thursday to make PCR testing more accessible for vulnerable sectors.

The bill prioritizes testing for individuals returning to work with co-morbidities such as diabetes and hypertension, pregnant women, elderly people, health care workers, food handlers, factory workers, construction workers, security guards, drivers, and bank personnel.

It also covers Filipinos and foreigners entering the country from abroad, though foreign nationals would need to cover their own testing costs.