2,656 COVID Cases Logged as Metro Manila Quarantine Eases Further

The Philippines on Saturday tallied 2,656 new COVID-19 cases as the National Capital Region eased to further to a looser quarantine, Alert Level 2.

The day's total brought the total active cases to 34,866. The Department of Health also reported 154 deaths and 5,130 recoveries.

Since the pandemic began in March 2020, the Philippines has a cumulative total of 2,800,621 cases, 44,239 deaths and 2,721,516 recoveries.

Alert Level 2, the second lowest under a five-step quarantine system, in Metro Manila will last until Nov. 21. Under this level, businesses can operate at up to 70% of their outdoor capacities, and up to half of their indoor capacities for fully vaccinated individuals. 

Colleges and universities may hold in-person classes subject to health protocols. Children will also be allowed outdoors for leisure and school activities under Alert Level 2.

The Philippines is kicking COVID vaccinations "to the max" later in November, eyeing to vaccinate five million people over three days, vaccine czar Sec. Carlito Galvez Jr. said Thursday. The goal is to fully vaccinate 50 million Filipinos before the year ends for a happy Christmas.

YOUR GUIDE TO ALERT LEVEL 2:

Alert Level 2 in Metro Manila: What Does It Mean?

Alert Level 2: Colleges, Universities Can Hold Limited Face-to-Face Classes

Children Allowed Outdoors for Leisure, School Under Alert Level 2