2022 starts off with 3,617 new cases based on close to 30,000 tests done last December 30, a holiday, with 14.8% positivity rate. The large climb in positivity rate shows us that there will be continuing rise in cases in the upcoming weeks. The public is urged to make sure the minimum health standards are strictly observed, and when given the chance, to get vaccinated or booster shots as soon as possible.

Active cases are at more than 17,000 with 70% of them being mild cases. Hospital utilization rate at the National Capital Region is up, together with ICU utilization rate, but remains at low risk. Because hospitalization is a lagging indicator, we need to monitor this closely so that we can manage its appropriate use.