The Philippines posted 414 new cases of the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19), bringing the total number to 3,660, the Department of Health (DOH) announced Monday.

Meanwhile, fatalities also rose 163, after 11 new deaths have been reported by DOH.

In a bit of good news, recoveries jumped to 73 after nine more patients successfully recovered and were sent home from their respective hospitals. 

Meanwhile, the DOH has certified ten laboratories in the country to conduct COVID-19 testing.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III explained that the health department will need four to five more days to analyze if COVID-19 cases in the country have already reached its peak.

The Philippines ranked second in Southeast Asia for the most number of COVID-19 cases, following its neighbor Malaysia with 3,662 positive cases.  (RJ Espartinez)