The Department of Health said that as of June 18, 2023, there were a total of 477 severe and critical COVID-19 patients admitted to hospitals in the country. Out of the 2,080 ICU beds designated for COVID-19 patients, 346 beds, or 16.6%, were occupied. Additionally, 3,434 (19.5%) out of 17,647 non-ICU COVID-19 beds were currently in use.

The DOH added that more than 78 million individuals, equivalent to 100.44% of the target population, have been vaccinated against COVID-19. Among them, 23 million individuals have received their booster shots. On the other hand, 7.1 million senior citizens, or 82.16% of the target A2 population, have completed their primary series.

According to their data from June 12 to 18, a total of 4,281 new cases were recorded in the country. The average number of new cases per day this week stood at 612, which is 35% lower compared to the cases reported from June 5 to 11. Out of the new cases, 57 individuals were classified as severe or critical. Furthermore, there was one reported death during this period, with no deaths recorded from June 5 to 18.

The Department of Health reminds everyone not to be complacent regarding the threat of COVID-19. Instead, it is crucial to continue following the minimum public health standards under Alert Level 1. It emphasizes the importance of wearing a best-fitted face mask and, whenever possible, staying in well-ventilated areas. If symptoms arise, immediate isolation is advised. To enhance protection against COVID-19, individuals are encouraged to promptly get vaccinated and receive booster shots.