By Mike Crismundo BUTUAN CITY – The Department of Health-Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) late Tuesday afternoon disclosed that three new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases were confirmed through reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) tests in Caraga region. This increased the number of coronavirus cases in the region to 14. The 12th case was a 29-year-old male, while the 13th case was a 31-year-old male, both returning overseas Filipinos (ROFs) from Agusan del Norte, who arrived in the country last April 1 and 18, respectively. The 14th case was a 26-year-old female ROF from Agusan del Sur who arrived in the region on May 31 via land trip from Cagayan de Oro City. The respective local government units (LGUs) were able to conduct Rapid Antibody-based Testing (RAT) and these turned out positive therefore swabs were taken for RT-PCR confirmatory testing. All three patients are on strict quarantine facility, currently with no signs and symptoms, and are being closely monitored. Further contact tracing and coordination is being carried out by the concerned LGUs and health authorities of Regions 13 and 10, the DOH-CHD said. “As a reminder, we strongly urge the public especially when going out from their homes and in public places to properly wear masks,” DOH 13 Regional Director Dr. Jose R. Llacuna, Jr. said. “Make sure your face mask covers your mouth and nose. Avoid touching the masks, replace it daily especially when damaged or if it becomes dirty and wash your hands after removing your masks,” Llacuna said.