The variant that carries the two mutations of the Covid-19 virus protein in Central Visayas was found to be indigenous to the country. The so-called Philippine variant, or P.3, was detected in the more than 70 Covid-19 cases with “mutations of clinical concern” that were detected in the region in the past weeks. B1128 also mutated from P.1 or the Brazilian variant, which is more infectious and could reinfect people previously diagnosed with Covid-19. “This confirms that our enhanced public healthcare measures work against any variant, whether imported or homegrown. In Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City and Davao City, the number of Covid cases has dropped, while Baguio City saw an increase in cases.

Source: Manila Times March 12, 2021 16:23 UTC