The Department of Health has admitted that there aren’t enough testing kits available for the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
The lack of kits and testing supplies could possibly lead to a possible undereporting of cases.
Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said in a media briefing that they have limited resources to address COVID-19.
“He said there is a possibility of under reporting, although unintentionally. This is largely because of our limited testing supplies. As soon as we get more, then we will be able to expand the coverage of who will be tested,” Duque told reporters in Malacañang.
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The DOH said that they have a testing capacity of testing 4,500 individuals, 2,000 will arrive more on Tuesday.
The University of the Philippines has created testing kits for the coronavirus, but they have yet to get clearance from the World Health Organization.
“Marami po tayong naririnig na nagsasabi, bakit ang DOH hindi mag-test nang mag-test, kagaya ng ginagawa ng iba? May global shortage, hindi ito na-anticipate ng suppliers, manufacturing companies,” the Health chief said.
“Meron po tayong pondo, maraming tumutulong. Ang problema ‘yung supply. We have to rationalize our testing,” Duque further explained.
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As of Monday, there are 20 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the country.
Senator Nancy Binay chided health officials over their revelation that we only have over 2,000 test kits for COVID-19 out of a hundred million population.
“I don’t want to panic, but you are making me panic. Naririnig namin ngayon, parang hindi niyo pinaghandaan na magkakaroon tayo ng local transmission,” Senator Nancy Binay said.
