MANILA, Philippines — A limited number of testing kits and slow response to the spread of the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) have put the Department of Health under fire. Budget department data showed as early as January, 94.8% of DOH's P101.02 billion budget was already released, which means the agency can already enter into contracts with service providers for their needs. On top of the P13 billion, economic managers last week said they are also requesting an additional P2.92 billion for COVID-19 response. On Monday evening, the Department of Finance said it is allocating an additional P3.1 billion to help purchase medical supplies such as testing kits. While funds are available and procurement already eased, global demand for testing kits have also increased, stretching supplies and delaying orders' arrival.

Source: Philippine Star March 17, 2020 06:05 UTC