Philippines classified at minimal risk for COVID-19

The Philippines is now classified as minimal risk for COVID-19 with all regions showing a decrease in average daily attack rates.

Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario S. Vergeire reported that the country had an average of 544 cases daily from Nov. 29 to Dec. 5, which was 42% lower than the previous week's average.

The DOH is closely monitoring Eastern Samar and Zamboanga Sibugay due to a slight increase in their case growth rates.

Despite the overall improvement, health officials are testing more inbound travelers to prevent an outbreak of the Omicron variant.