COVID-19 Updates

SARS-CoV-2-bulletins

Detection of the D614G Variant of SARS-CoV-2 Virus in the Philippines

In contrast to the coronavirus collected in March, we now report the detection of the D614 variant among nine (9) randomly selected COVID-19 positive samples collected in Quezon City in July.

Three Possible Routes of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the Philippines

These findings highlight the need to continually review and improve the quarantine, testing and tracing measures being employed locally to adapt to the current pandemic situation.

23 newly reported genome sequences from the PH support previously hypothesized viral entry routes & waves of transmission

CFB gathered the publicly available sequences and incorporated them in a phylogenomic analysis together with previously reported sequence data from PGC and the RITM.

Newly reported variant in the United Kingdom has yet to be observed locally

In this bulletin, we present relevant information on the genetic changes found in the UK variant, as well as the results of our latest analysis focusing on locally observed spike protein mutations.

New Variants from UK and South Africa NOT detected in 305 local viral samples

The data presented in this report is part of our own continuing biosurveillance efforts to track the entry of these new variants in the country, as well as other viral mutations that may be of concern locally.

First case of the new variant under Lineage B.1.1.7 detected in the Philippines

Through the biosurveillance efforts of the UP – PGC, in coordination with the DOH – Epidemiology Bureau and the IATF Task Force on COVID-19 Variants,  we report the first confirmed case of the SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.7 lineage

Detection and characterization of a new SARS-CoV-2 lineage P.3, with spike protein mutations E484K, N501Y, P681H and LGV 141-143 deletion

Through the biosurveillance efforts of the PGC, NIH, and the DOH, a SARS-CoV-2 variant bearing multiple mutations of concern in the spike protein region has been first detected through whole genome sequencing at the PGC DNA Sequencing Core Facility.

Detection of the first 500 SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Variant in the Philippines

The Omicron variant was first identified in Botswana and South Africa, emerging at the tail end of the Delta surge. At present, cases of the Omicron variant continue to increase and have been reported in over 118 countries with over 496,000 sequences in the combined Omicron lineages shared in global databases.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Philippine Genome Center gears up to verify presence of 2019-nCoV through whole genome sequencing

With the use of Next Generation DNA/RNA Sequencing equipment, PGC is ready to verify the presence of 2019-nCoV through whole genome sequencing.

PGC to handle sequencing of COVID-19 03/16/2020

In our effort to continually protect the PGC skeletal workforce during this national health emergency, we are accepting Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) donations.

Temporary halt in accepting samples and requests for services to focus on assisting the UP-NIH with the kit validation and field testing

Halt in accepting all samples and requests for services starting March 16, 2020 until further notice.

PGC’s Clinical Genomics Laboratory certified to conduct testing for COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) by Real-Time PCR 

PGC’s Clinical Genomics Laboratory completed and passed RITM’s proficiency testing for SARS-CoV-2 detection by Real-Time PCR. Thus certifying the lab to perform independent testing.

PGC Core Facility for Bioinformatics releases six (6) genome sequences of SARS-CoV-2 from Philippine samples between March 22-28, 2020

All the cases had no travel history outside the Philippines.

PGC COVID-19 Lab – Frequently Asked Questions

For COVID-19 test concerns, contact at 8981-8625 / 8981-8500 local 4713 or email clinicalgenomicslaboratory@up.edu.ph.

DNA Sequencing Core Facility resumes its services on July 1, 2020

Sample submission schedule (DROP OFF) PGC GF lobby, reception, Tues to Fri, 09:00 am – 02:00 pm

Give to UP hosts #PGCParaSaBayan donation campaign

PGC Para sa Bayan—aims to provide support for PGC’s COVID-19 Testing Laboratory and will facilitate the procurement of essential lab supplies, additional equipment, and/or other necessary costs related to testing.

PGC’s COVID-19 laboratory is a non-hospital based facility (NHB)

CGL accepts samples for testing and does not perform swabbing or swab collection.

PGC’s COVID-19 lab opens Drive-thru & On-foot Swabbing Operations

In addition to its mandated COVID-19 testing (RT-PCR) for PhilHealth covered patients, PGC CGL will open its Drive-thru & On-foot Swabbing Operations on Oct. 12, 2020

#PGCTalks to feature topics on COVID-19 testing, sequencing, and bioinformatics analysis 

PGC is hosting a mini webinar series #PGCTalks featuring PGC experts and will cover topics on DNA sequencing, bioinformatics analysis, and testing related to COVID-19.

SARS-CoV-2 lineage P.3 first detected in the Philippines labeled as ‘Theta’ by WHO

The new nomenclature system will be easier for use by non-scientific audiences and non-stigmatizing to places where they were first detected.

More Information

Salin sa Filipinong mga terminolohiya kaugnay ng COVID-19

Gamit ang mga halaw na salita ni Prof. Eilene Narvaez, gumawa ang PGC ng mga ilustrasyon para sa mga terminolohiyang may kinalaman sa COVID-19.

Appreciation post for PGC Skeletal force, health workers, and all front liners #SalamatSaInyo

The genome center extends its appreciation and support to all front liners and health workers in general.

Steps in using the locally made rRT-PCR Detection Kit (GenAmplify)

Major steps in using the local rRT-PCR Detection Kit, general requirements in terms of equipment and supplies, as well as a step-by-step guide about testing.

COVID-19 Safety Tips & Precautions 

PGC shares its COVID-19 laboratory safety tips and precautions.

Contact Exposure Algorithm

This algorithm may serve as reference for other communities, institutions, and/or offices with confirmed cases and for staff who have had potential exposure.

Through the DOST-PCHRD-UP Project entitled "Biosurveillance of COVID-19 in the Philippines through Whole Genome Sequencing of SARS-Cov-2 from Patients", the Philippine Genome Center is conducting a public health surveillance using genomic epidemiology perspective to provide a better and deeper understanding of the spread of the virus in aid of tracing and containment of the disease.
Genomics for a better philippines
#PGCParaSaBayan