PH plans mass testing of PUMs, PUIs starting April 14

The Philippine government plans to conduct mass testing for persons under monitoring (PUMs) and patients under investigation (PUIs) for COVID-19 starting April 14.

NTF-COVID-19 chief implementer Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. stated that the objective is to identify carriers of the virus and isolate them in quarantine facilities like stadiums and convention halls.

At least two national quarantine centers will be operational by April 10, with another center ready by April 12.

The government is also preparing large venues such as gymnasiums, convention centers, sports complexes, and hotels to serve as forced quarantine areas.