MANILA, Philippines (UPDATED) – The number of frontliners at the University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD) positive for the COVID-19 doubled in a day on Thursday, June 25.

Reporting 7 confirmed cases on Wednesday, the university reported another 7 on Thursday. 

“All of the new cases have been isolated and there is a continuous contact tracing by the UPHS Public Health Unit,” UP Diliman said in a statement on Thursday.   

It added that the cluster of infections is confined within the Kanlungang Palma and UP Health Services (UPHS), and the two facilities are now implementing stricter infection control measures. 

“We appeal to all UPD employees and residents for calm and understanding. Rest assured that UPHS and Kanlungang Palma are doing its best to contain COVID-19,” the statement said. 

When it announced the first batch of confirmed cases on Wednesday, UP Diliman did not specify what work the said frontliners did. However, it assured people “services will continue at the Kanlungang Palma and the UPHS.”

In May, Palma Hall in UP Diliman opened its doors as an isolation area for suspected and probable coronavirus cases in the university area. (READ: LOOK: Palma Hall opens its doors as isolation unit for UP Diliman)

Kanlungang Palma can accomodate 26 patients at most since only one person can be accommodated per room. It only admits patients between 18 and 60 years old who have no other existing illnesses, such as uncontrolled hypertension, diabetes or immunosuppressed conditions. Pregnant patients and walks-in will not be accommodated.

Using funds from Act as One PH and other UP supporters, Kanlungang Palma will be in operation until July. – Rappler.com