The Philippines on Saturday reported 943 new novel coronavirus infections, taking the nationwide total to 29,400, data from the Department of Health (DOH) said.

The country also reported 20 additional deaths from the respiratory illness, raising its death toll  to 1,150 since the outbreak began in January.

Meanwhile, the number of people who survived from COVID-19 increased by 272, with total recoveries now at 7,650.

“As of 7PM today, June 20, 2020, the Department of Health reports the total number of COVID-19 cases at  29,400,” said DOH COVID-19 Case Bulletin #098.

“In addition to the 578  fresh cases, 365 late cases were also reported today. Today’s fresh cases are based on the daily accomplishment reports submitted by only 49 out of 59 current operational labs,” said the DOH.

“Of the 20 reported deaths, 15 (75%) occurred in June (June 05-16, 2020). Two duplicates were also removed from total case count. The total cases reported may be subject to change as these numbers undergo constant cleaning and validation,” the DOH said./Stacy Ang