Philippine Red Cross Opens Its Biggest Molecular Laboratory in Cebu

The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) recently opened the P38 million peso molecular laboratory in Mandaue City.

The facility is capable of processing 4,000 Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) tests per day which aims to ease the PCR testing backlogs in the whole province in Cebu, especially in Cebu City where COVID-19 cases are still rising.

The inauguration of the 207-square meter laboratory was headed by PRC Chairman and CEO Senator Richard “Dick” Gordon, who said that the lab will be able to help Cebu since the PRC laboratory together with existing laboratories processing PCR tests.

“Within 48 hours, lalabas ang result (ng PCR test). Makakatulong kami sa buong Cebu kasi sabay-sabay na kami magtetest. Bibilis lahat ng testing dito,” Gordon said.

Meanwhile, the 4 air-conditioned tents that will serve as cluster clinics as requested by the Cebu City government have been also approved by Gordon. Clinics are temporarily situated at the Sawang Calero gym, Brotherhood gym, Tinago gym, and Cebu Medical Society (CMS) building.

Assistant to Cebu Overseer Roy Cimatu, Retired MGen. Mel Feliciano recognized the constant effort of PRC in helping to contain COVID-19.

“In behalf of the IATF Emergency Operations Center (EOC) here in Cebu City, we thank the PRC and Senator Gordon for extending a helping hand during this hour of need. These efforts will surely boost the city’s health care mechanisms to fight COVID-19,” Feliciano said. (MLC)