Get a COVID Swab Test for P4,000 at the Philippine Red Cross

The Philippine Red Cross is the latest to offer COVID-19 testing, as the country continues to grapple with the pandemic. The RT-PCR, more commonly known as swab testing, can be had at P4,000.

Results are out in 24 to 48 hours (or 48 to 72 hours for Red Cross partners) the humanitarian group said. The reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction type of test detects the virus in samples taken from the nose and mount with a swab and is considered the "gold standard" in confirming infection.

Interested parties can contact the Philippine Red Cross Molecular Laboratory, and book a schedule by calling Hotline 1138 or connect on Viber via the RC143 app.

Health Usec. Maria Rosario Vergeire said Thursday the government was targeting at least 1.5 million COVID-19 tests by the end of the month. The government has adopted a four-point strategy of test, trace, isolate and treat.

As of Thursday, the country recorded 2,200 newly confirmed infections, padding the total to 74,390 cases, with 24,383 recoveries, and 1,871 deaths.