You can get free COVID-19 swab tests in Manila, but only by appointment

A real-time swab test—also known as reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test—costs P3,800 at most in public hospitals, but local government units (LGUs), corporations and other organizations have been trying to subsidize its cost to make it affordable for everyone. In the city of Manila,  it is now available for free—and can even be availed of via drive-thru.

Manila’s LGU launched its drive-thru RT-PCR testing service at the Quirino Grandstand today, Jan. 18. The service is open from Monday to Friday starting 8 a.m. to 12 noon. 

It’s free, like the city’s previously-launched drive-thru serology testing, but only around 100 persons can avail of the service per day. That’s why those who want to take the swab test for free must contact the Manila Emergency Operation Center ahead of time to schedule an appointment. The city’s health department can be reached via the following phone numbers: 0905-2423327, 0998-3226367, 0963-6023177 and 0955-5875976.

As the drive-thru RT-PCR testing service opens, the Manila Public Information Office announces the closing of the city’s drive-thru and walk-in serology testing services starting today. This is to encourage more people to take the RT-PCR test instead, which is more effective in determining active infections compared to the serology test, which only looks for antibodies against the virus to determine if someone has been infected previously. 

Currently, Manila also has free COVID-19 RT-PCR testing services at the Sta. Ana Hospital and Delpan Quarantine Facility. According to Mayor Isko Moreno, the free swab test is open to everyone, whether or not they reside in Manila. “The tests continue while we are awaiting the arrival of the anti-COVID vaccines,” said Moreno.

Aside from the Manila LGU, the Philippine General Hospital also announced recently that it is offering free swab tests to its employees and their close contacts, its charity patients and their watchers, as well as senior citizens and persons with disabilities.