HEADS UP: Will Metro Manila Be Upgraded to Alert Level 4? (Jan. 10)

Here’s a Heads Up from reportr on news you need to know today, Jan. 10:

COVID NEWS

• The Philippines on Sunday recorded a new all-time high of 28,707 COVID-19 cases in a single day as it faces another surge in infections believed to be driven by the Omicron variant.
• As COVID-19 cases rise, Health Sec. Francisco Duque III floated the possibility of upgrading Metro Manila to Alert Level 4, the second strictest of the five-tier alert system.
• Commuters and motorists are now required to present their vaccination cards at checkpoints in Metro Manila and Bulacan, the PNP said.
• President Rodrigo Duterte ordered barangay leaders to arrest unvaccinated individuals who leave their homes.
• Instead of threatening the unvaccinated with arrest, Vice President Leni Robredo urged the government to offer incentives to encourage Filipinos to get a COVID jab.

NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Need to take a COVID-19 test? Here’s where you can get it for free or for a cheaper price.
• How long should you isolate or quarantine? Here are the guidelines from the DOH.
• Should you get a booster shot while positive for COVID-19? Wait until you recover, the DOH says.
• Need to isolate at home? Here are some hospitals offering COVID Home Care programs.
• Kids are also prone to the coronavirus. Here are some advice from the DOH on treating children infected with COVID-19.
• Plan your errands accordingly as some malls in Metro Manila adjusted their operating hours.

NEWS YOU NEED TO KNOW

• The Philippines' unemployment rate has fallen to its lowest level since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• National Artist for Literature F. Sionil Jose has passed away at the age of 97.
• The Senate will be closed from Jan. 10 to 16 after a number of employees tested positive for COVID-19.
• Presidential aspirant Sen. Panfilo Lacson said he tested positive for COVID-19.
• As she recovered from COVID-19, Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach urged the public to follow the protocols, get tested, and get vaccinated.