The last time we talked about the rising number of COVID-19 cases, we talked about what happens during a swab test, all the hospitals you can contact if you want to get a test done and how much money you’ll need to prepare to get it.
[READ: How much does a COVID-19 test cost in your nearby hospital?]
But if finances are tight and you can’t get a test from a hospital, bookmark this list. Your local government may be offering free tests—and here’s how you can get a schedule.
Manila City
https://www.facebook.com/ManilaPIO/posts/907764376374919
Manila City’s testing sites are open to everyone—including non-residents. Their drive-thru testing sites are located at Plaza Lawton and Quirino Grandstand; while the Justice Jose Abad Santos General Hospital, Gat Andres Bonifacio Memorial Medical Center and Ospital ng Sampaloc are accepting walk-ins.
These testing sites use serology antibody tests, which detects antibodies in blood samples from patients. Results are sent through text or email after 24 hours. Residents will have certificates delivered to their homes in sealed envelopes, while non-residents can claim their certificates from a designated lane at Quirino Grandstand.
[READ: Manila has 2 new free testing drive-thru and walk-in sites but Mayor Isko calls for donations]
Pasig City
0928-2911716
0928-2911717
https://www.facebook.com/VicoSotto/posts/3314736798584975
Pasig City residents can also avail of free COVID-19 testing from their local government. Free tests are conducted at Tanghalang Pasigueño, and they use an antibody test called enhanced chemiluminescence immunoassay (Eclia) testing, which looks for antibodies in blood samples.
Residents who want to avail of free testing will need to schedule an appointment and undergo a medical evaluation before testing.
Taguig City
8789-3200
0966-4194510
https://www.facebook.com/taguigcity/posts/3321312311234569
Open only to Taguig residents, free COVID-19 testing sites are located at Bonifacio Global City’s Northeast Parking Area and Lakeshore Hall. Residents who want to get tested have to take a self-assessment test online. Qualified residents will receive a schedule and a control number, which should be presented at the testing area on their appointment.
Residents will receive their results after three to five days, through a call from the City Epidemiology and Disease Surveillance Unit (CEDSU).
Quezon City
QC Task Force COVID-19 hotline 122
[email protected]
https://www.facebook.com/QCGov/posts/360114875376276
Quezon City has opened a number of community testing centers, which offer free RT-PCR tests for qualified residents in these sites:
- Quezon City General Hospital
- Nova District Hospital
- Maclang General Hospital
- Esteban Abada Elementary School (District 1)
- Batasan National High School (District 2)
- Matandang Balara Covered Court (District 3)
- Quezon City Experience (QCX) in Quezon Memorial Circle (District 4)
- SB Park Novaliches (District 5)
- UP Asian Institute of Tourism East Wing along Commonwealth Ave. (District 6)
Walk-ins are not allowed and Quezon City residents who want to get tested have to schedule an interview and assessment at your nearest barangay health center. Qualified residents will be directed to a testing center for an x-ray, blood and swab test.
Last month, Quezon City also rolled out mobile testing units that can conduct rapid diagnostic tests (RDT) and polymerase chain reaction tests (PCRT). These are equipped with a generator, a mini-laboratory and a self-decontamination area.
Header photo courtesy of the Manila Public Information Office
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Writer: ANGELA PATRICIA SUACILLO
