THE number of deaths due to coronavirus disease (Covid-19) in Central Luzon has climbed to 445 cases, while the total number of confirmed cases in the region is now at 16,117, the Department of Health (DOH) said.

The continuing increase had been brought in by cases in Bulacan province, which are now at 7,140, the highest in Central Luzon. Coronavirus-related deaths in Bulacan alone are now at 222.

Pampanga remains the province with the second most number of confirmed cases at 3,411 with 107 deaths. Bataan is in a close third with 2,575 confirmed cases and 41 deaths.

In Zambales province, confirmed cases have reached 1,245 with at least 20 deaths.

Meanwhile, Nueva Ecija had recorded 849 cases and 30 deaths. Tarlac province had recorded 579 cases with 25 dead.

The Province of Aurora, which had enjoyed coronavirus-free status for many months now has 20 confirmed cases.

Of the 16,117 confirmed cases in the region, the DOH said 11,846 have already recovered. About 868, meanwhile, are still admitted in various hospital facilities, while 2,958 are undergoing the required 14-day home quarantine.