By Analou De Vera
The Philippines reported its highest single-day increase in new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases today (June 23) since the first case of the illness was recorded last January.
Department of Health (DOH) Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire reported an additional 1,150 new confirmed cases, taking the nationwide tally to 31,825.
The previous record of highest cases in a day was last May 29, with 1,049 cases.
Vergeire, meanwhile, reported that nine more people lost their lives due to the dreaded illness, bringing the death toll to 1,186. The number of recoveries is now at 8,442 as the DOH added 299 to the tally.
Of the 1,150 new cases, 789 were “fresh” or test results released to patients within the last three days. The DOH said that 361 were late cases or test results released to patients four days ago or earlier but were only validated recently.
In a separate statement, the DOH said that they are still “analyzing” its data on what contributes to the spike in cases.
“Our epidemiology bureau is now in the process of analyzing all the available data and information, and will report their findings as to why we saw an increase in cases today ASAP (as soon as possible),” it said.
“Rest assured that we will relay the information to all of you as soon as it is available,” it added.