PNP COVID-19 cases rise to 552

MANILA, Philippines — The number of active COVID-19 cases in the Philippine National Police has ballooned to 552, the PNP reported yesterday.

The PNP said 295 more police personnel have tested positive for the virus.

The latest number of infections is higher by 2,200 percent compared to only 24 COVID-19 cases last week.

Three infected police personnel have recovered from the viral disease. The death toll stood at 125.

Among those who were infected was PNP chief Gen. Dionardo Carlos. He continues to manage the affairs of the police force while on quarantine.

DOJ logs 35 COVID cases

Meanwhile, 35 employees of the Department of Justice (DOJ) have tested positive for COVID-19.

Of the number, 21 personnel are assigned at the DOJ central office along Padre Faura street in Manila.

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said he would not impose a lockdown.

“Most likely, reduction of onsite workforce and weekly disinfection of the DOJ premises,” Guevarra said.

Justice Undersecretary Emmeline Aglipay-Villar said four of the 16 DOJ offices nationwide have active cases of COVID-19.

LTFRB central office closed

Meanwhile, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board central office in Quezon City will remain closed today for swab testing of LTFRB employees.

The LTFRB shut down its offices yesterday amid the rising cases of COVID-19.

“Employees of the agency will undergo RT-PCR tests. The facilities will be sanitized,” the LTFRB said.

The agency’s hotline 1342 will not be operational until Jan. 9.