Benguet Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) tally breached the century mark after the Provincial Health Office reported 42 new cases raising the total count to 1, 026 as of October 29.
Benguet Public Information Office published in their account that 22 new cases were monitored in the municipality of Tuba, 17 from Itogon, two in La Trinidad and one from Kabayan.
The Provincial Health Office (PHO) reported a total of 528 confirmed active cases, 485 recoveries, and 13 deaths.
Most of the active cases came from the mining areas of Itogon town with 198 active cases and four deaths, and Tuba town with 158 active cases.
Mass testing and contact tracing are now being undertaken in these areas to identify other individuals who probably contracted the Coronavirus.
With the increasing COVID-19 cases Benguet Governor Melchor Diclas convened health workers from the PHO, BeGH, District Hospitals, and concerned department heads of offices to address issues and concerns brought about by the surge of COVID-19 cases in the province.
Diclas said the province needs more than 100 isolation beds with both the Temporary Treatment and Monitoring Facility.
The province is now looking into the establishment of more isolation units, and coordination and support system among local government units are now being strengthened.
Gov. Diclas, a doctor by profession, continues to advise the public to always abide by health protocols to avoid contracting the virus.
In Baguio City the total COVID-19 confirmed cases surged to 1,991 with 589 active cases, 1,376 recoveries, and 26 deaths as 8:30 last night. (OIC Joe Manzano, RPN DZBS Baguio)
