Philippines gears up for massive coronavirus testing

The government is preparing for 'massive testing' of persons under monitoring and investigation, as well as front-line health workers.

As part of this effort, 168,000 test kits have arrived from China, Singapore, and South Korea, with the NTF purchasing an additional 500,000 to one million personal protective equipment (PPE).

The University of the Philippines-developed diagnostic kit is undergoing field validation until April 1, with FDA approval expected by April 3.

Manila HealthTek Inc., a local company, will have locally-made test kits available for up to 120,000 tests starting April 4, prioritizing 1,300 kits funded by the DOST and UP NIH project.