The Department of Health has announced that the Philippines has already surpassed the 432,000-mark in the number of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases as it records 1,298 new cases. The total number now stands at 432,925.

The country still has one of the highest number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Southeast Asia. In addition, data released by Johns Hopkins University showed that it is now part of the top 25 countries with the most number of reported COVID-19 cases.

DOH has also confirmed that the recoveries in the country now stands at 398,782, after 135 patients have been declared recovered from the virus.

In addition, the department announced a record of 27 new fatalities, bringing the total number to 8,418.

President Rodrigo Duterte announced that Metro Manila along with Batangas, Iloilo City, Tacloban City, Lanao del Sur, Iligan, Davao City will be placed under general community quarantine (GCQ) from until end of the year.

Under the GCQ status, more industries will be permitted to reopen despite movement limitations. This includes dine-in at restaurants and religious gatherings at 50 percent capacity, provided strict safety precautions are observed.

The rest of the country will be under the more relaxed Modified General Community Quarantine.