Mass testing for COVID-19 is still a work in progress, to put it simply. While waiting for more facilities to open and serve the people, there are already a couple of drive-thru testing centers in Metro Manila where you can be tested for the disease without having to leave your vehicle. Some services are provided by local government units, while there are also private hospitals that offer these facilities. Check out the list below.
Here’s a guide to the different drive-thru COVID-19 testing centers in Metro Manila:
City of Manila
The administration of Isko Moreno set up two drive-thru testing centers in the City of Manila in July, a service which is open for free to residents and non-residents alike. They utilize a serology testing method which, like the rapid antibody test, looks into blood samples for signs of the disease. Folks, whether on motorized or non-motorized vehicles, are welcome to drive up to the testing center during the times below.
Lawton
Where: In front of the Andres Bonifacio Monument
Schedule: 10am to 5pm, Mondays to Fridays
Ermita
Where: Quirino Grandstand
Schedule: 11am to 5pm, Mondays to Fridays
Taguig City
As part ofthe the Systematic Mass Approach to Responsible Testing (SMART) program, Taguig City’s local government has put up two testing sites for residents using the RT-PCR method, also known as the gold standard of testing for COVID-19. If a Taguig City resident wishes to be tested, they must call the hotline to get a control number and schedule a visit to either of the two testing centers: Bonifacio Global City or Lakeshore Taguig.
Bonifacio Global City
Book an appointment: 8789-3200 or 0966-419-45-10, Taguig City Epidemiology and Disease Surveillance Unit
Where: Northeast parking area in front of Kidzania, beside the buildings of CitiBank and IBM One World Place.
Schedule: 3pm to 5pm on Wednesdays
Lakeshore Taguig
Book an appointment: 8789-3200 or 0966-419-45-10
Where: Barangay Lower Bicutan
Schedule: 3pm to 5pm on Fridays
St. Luke’s Medical Center Global City
Aside from government testing centers, St. Luke’s Medical Center also offers RT-PCR testing at their Global City and Quezon City branches. Asymptomatic patients must schedule an appointment at least two days before. You may contact the center for pricing.
Book an appointment: 8789-7700 loc. 2677 / 5104, 8789-7277, 8846-8830, or 0998-582-2093 or 0998-582-2276
Schedule: 7am to 4pm daily
Quezon City
St. Luke’s Medical Center Quezon City
Book an appointment: 8789-7700 loc. 2677 or 5104, 8789-7277, 8846-8830, or 0998-582-2093 or 0998-582-2276
Schedule: 2pm to 6pm daily
Pasig City
The Medical City Ortigas
The Medical City offers drive-thru testing using the Enhanced Chemiluminescence Immunoassay (ECLIA) antibody test; similar to the rapid antibody testing we hear about. According to the hospital, this type of test promises 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity. Just note that this ECLIA antibody test will require blood to be drawn and costs P2,200. You can either book an appointment or simply drive by the parking area of the Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health.
Book an appointment: TMCcovidtest.com
Schedule: 7am to 6pm, from Monday to Saturday
For more of our stories on the ongoing crisis, click here. For the latest news and updates on COVID-19, check out reportr.world/covid-19.
NOTE: This story originally appeared on Spot.ph. Minor edits have been made.
