Philippines' COVID-19 cases top 70K

As of Tuesday, July 21, the Philippines reported a total of 70,764 confirmed COVID-19 cases, including two new deaths, bringing the death toll to 1,837.

The DOH recorded 1,951 new cases on Tuesday, with 75% originating from Metro Manila.

Experts predict that by July 31, the number of cases could reach 85,000.

Since July 15, Metro Manila has seen over 1,000 new cases daily, prompting President Duterte to extend the general community quarantine until July 31 with a warning that it may be upgraded to modified enhanced community quarantine if cases continue to rise.