By ANALOU DE VERA
The Department of Health reported 934 new cases of COVID-19 Friday, the lowest daily figure since November.
The last time that the daily reported cases hit below 1,000 was last Nov. 4 with 987 cases.
The new infections pushed the country’s total number of cases to 436,345 – 6.5 percent or 28,379 are active cases or those who are still undergoing treatment.
The DOH also reported 148 new recoveries, bringing the tally to 399,457. The death count, however, jumped to 8,509 with 63 more fatalities.
Meanwhile, the DoH renewed its appeal to the public to celebrate the holiday season at home and use digital platforms to keep in touch with relatives in order to avoid a possible surge of COVID-19 cases.
“We can still have a meaningful Christmas even if we stay at home and reconnect with our friends and families online,” said Health Secretary Francisco Duque III.
“Going out, visiting relatives and friends, and attending family reunions are possible sources of infection as one cannot ascertain the exposure of and health status of other people,” he added.
Duque stressed that “celebrating the holidays during this pandemic is no exception to maintaining our caution.”
“In fact, with the holidays upon us, we have more reason to be careful and cautious as the usual practices during these times pose a much greater risk of contracting COVID-19. We all need to find safer ways to celebrate this season without compromising our health and the health of our loved ones,” he said.
“The virus is very much around and is still among us, and no one can be sure who the virus carrier is. Don’t bring home the virus. Please stay at home for a merrier and healthier Christmas. After all, a COVID-free holiday is one of the best gifts we can give to our loved ones,” he added.
