The total number of COVID-19 cases in the Philippines hit 1,171,403 on Friday after the Department of Health reported 6,258 new infections.

The Department of Tourism on Friday proposed setting up a “green lane” that would “facilitate the entry” of foreign travelers who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

The government's pandemic task force approved the inclusion of athletes set to compete in international events as well as workers in the liquefied petroleum gas industry in the priority list for vaccination against COVID-19.

“According to the Metro Manila Council, the mayors are now allowing religious gatherings at 30% venue capacity,” presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said in Filipino.

The poll, conducted from April 28 to May 2, found that 51% of the 1,200 respondents were confident in the country’s vaccine screening process. Thirty-one percent were uncertain, while 17% were not confident.

While most informal workers received cash aid under SAP, the assistance was only good for one month, said a case study which consulted 70 residents in Tondo, the poorest district in the City of Manila.

A measure regulating the sale and use of e-cigarettes and vapes in the country has been approved in the House of Representatives.

At least 34 colleges and universities in different parts of the country have offered their facilities to be used as additional vaccination centers, according to the Commission on Higher Education.

Several proposed dates will be submitted to President Duterte on the start of the next school year in the elementary and high school levels, the Department of Education said yesterday.

Business groups are banking on herd immunity and the issuance of vaccine passes to ensure safe reopening of businesses and ultimately the revival of the economy, presidential adviser on entrepreneurship and Go Negosyo founder Joey Concepcion said yes...