THE Department of Health (DOH)-Eastern Visayas reported on Wednesday, June 3, the first confirmed case of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) in the region's capital Tacloban City.

The patient is a 29-year-old female, a returning overseas Filipino (seafarer) from Tacloban who arrived via chartered plane (Z2 8611) last June 1, 2020.

She is currently on strict isolation, according to the regional health department in a statement.

"Our worst fear has been confirmed. As much as we want to stay Covid-free in our city, we have one confirmed case now. We will have to work together to prevent community spread. Your utmost cooperation is needed at this time," said Tacloban Vice Mayor Jerry Yaokasin, as he urged the public to wear mask, observe social distancing, and stay vigilant.

"But I'm confident that we shall overcome this crisis. Taclobanons are a very resilient people. We will prevail," Yaokasin told Sunstar Philippines.

Meanwhile, DOH-Eastern Visayas Director Minerva Molon said the current cases are "asymptomatic" or those who show no symptoms of Covid-19, such as difficulty in breathing, dry cough, or cold.

But she maintained that asymptomatic patient can still transmit the virus through talking, especially if that person is not wearing mask and not observing social distancing.

"Our call now to the public is to adapt the 'new normal.' Everyone, especially the vulnerable groups like the elderly, children, and people with comorbidities are encouraged to maintain good health in the midst of a pandemic by eating healthy food, exercising, practice frequent hand washing, wearing of mask, and proper cough etiquette," the health official said.

As of June 3, Eastern Visayas has a total of 47 confirmed Covid-19 cases. (SunStar Philippines)