Manila: Millions of people in the Philippines returned to a COVID-19 lockdown on Tuesday, after doctors warned a surge in new coronavirus cases could push the country’s healthcare system to collapse. Stay-at-home orders are now in place in Manila and the four surrounding provinces of Laguna, Cavite, Rizal and Bulacan on the island of Luzon until August 18, reports the BBC.
The new lockdown came after 80 medical associations on August 1 called on President Rodrigo Duterte to toughen restrictions in a bid to slow the spread of the virus.
On Sunday the Philippines announced a record 5,032 new infections.
In some areas hospitals are reported to have been forced to turn away soaring numbers of patients. (IANS)
