The Department of Health (DOH) reported 2,961 additional COVID-19 cases on Friday, December 31, pushing the Philippines’ total to 2,843,979.

It is the highest single-day tally since November 1, when 3,117 new cases were reported.

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The Philippines will remain under Alert Level 2 for the coronavirus crisis from January 1 to January 15, Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles announced on Thursday, December 30.

Under Alert Level 2, there are no age-based mobility restrictions and the government allows increased capacity for businesses and activities. This includes operations of dine-in restaurants, beauty salons, cinemas, and religious activities, among other things.

More details here.

The Philippines now has 2,841,260 confirmed COVID-19 cases after the Department of Health (DOH) reported 1,623 additional cases on Thursday, December 30.

This is the highest single-day tally since November 21, when 2,227 new cases were reported.

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Acting Presidential Spokesperson Karlo Nograles reminded the public to strictly follow health protocols during the holidays as the country is starting to see an uptick in COVID-19 cases.

In a press conference on Wednesday, December 29, Nograles said cases are likely increasing again because people are becoming more lax in following health protocols like physical distancing as they celebrate Christmas and New Year.

“So of course we are getting concerned. Of course we are getting worried, and we should be. That’s why our call is this: LGUs, please enforce [the rules]. If cases rise in your area, impose a granular lockdown,” Nograles said in a mix of English and Filipino.

“Again, this is a shared responsibility. It does not only rest on the shoulders of the government or the LGU; it rests on everyone’s shoulders…. Do not waste what we have all worked hard on.”

The Department of Health (DOH) on Tuesday, December 28, reminded the public to remain cautious and prevent dropping their guard against the coronavirus regardless of their vaccination status. 

“While symptoms may be mild for the fully vaccinated, the disease could be severe for the unvaccinated, especially for senior citizens and those who have other underlying medical conditions,” the DOH said in a statement. 

This reminder comes amid rising cases of COVID-19, with the DOH recording 421 new cases on Tuesday – an increase from 289 in the previous week. 

The DOH also noted that the National Capital Region and Calabarzon “also showed slight uptick in the positivity rate” but these increases are not seen in hospital admissions since most of the cases are mild or asymptomatic. 

The health department urged the public to follow minimum health standards, including wearing of masks, hand washing, and avoiding large crowds, among others. It also called on people to get vaccinated.

“These are just some of the many things we can do that will keep us and our loved ones safe from COVID-19,” the DOH said. “Let us always choose what is safe and health.”