Public Advisory: Number of COVID-19 Cases Among Filipinos Abroad (As of 02 April 2020)

As of 2 April 2020, 206* countries, areas, or territories around the world have confirmed cases of COVID-19; of which 32 countries/ regions covering Asia and Pacific, Europe, Middle East/Africa, and Americas have reported 48 new cases and 1 new death which gives a total of 448 confirmed COVID-19 cases (228 DOH IHR verified), 121 recoveries, and 14 deaths among OFs.

The 80 Filipinos aboard MV Diamond Princess docked in Japan who tested positive for COVID-19 have all recovered. The recent death reported was that of one of our dedicated career diplomats, Philippine Ambassador to Lebanon Bernardita “Bernie” L. Catalla.

With this untimely demise, the DFA is painfully reminded that the personnel in our foreign service posts likewise face, together with all our kababayan abroad, the challenges brought about by this dreadful disease. The memory of Amb. Catalla’s ultimate sacrifice in the service of our people will inspire those who remain to strive even harder in the face of adversity.

*https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019