The Philippines landed on the 57th spot in Nikkei Asia's global COVID Recovery Index, a giant leap from the country's previous 103rd position in the previous one.
The index assesses the infection management, vaccine rollouts, and social mobility of the countries included in the list.
"The higher the ranking, the closer a place is to recovery, characterized by fewer infections, higher inoculation rates, and less-strict social distancing measures," the report said.
With a total score of 53.3, the Philippines leaped 46 spots to place 57th in the latest index, sharing the spot with Malaysia, Norway, and Tajikistan.
"The Philippines jumped 46 spots to 57th, mainly thanks to a significant increase in its infection management scores," said the report.
However, it noted that while the country's infection numbers have dropped since its September peak, the country has the second-highest short-term case fatality rate at over nine percent.
The Nikkei COVID-19 Recovery Index ranks more than 120 countries and regions on infection management, #vaccine rollouts and social mobility.
— Nikkei Asia (@NikkeiAsia) December 6, 2021
Here's our latest (As of Nov. 30). #COVID19https://t.co/h17voZ5jku pic.twitter.com/n0NoU5th4s
The Philippines in October was on the 103rd spot, while in September it was on the 121st place.
Cabinet Secretary and acting presidential spokesperson Karlo Nograles said in a press briefing on Tuesday that the country's rise to the index shows the successful containment of the Delta variant in the Philippines.
"This latest Nikkei Asia COVID-19 Recovery Index is a clear indication that we have successfully contained the highly transmissible Delta variant," he said.
According to Nograles, the previous positions of the country in September and October were during the time when the country was experiencing outbreaks caused by the Delta variant.
Following the results, the spokesperson urged Filipinos to remain vigilant and continue observing minimum public health protocols ahead of the holiday season.
"That being said, we urge our people to remain vigilant especially during the holiday season, when everyone is looking forward to seeing their loved ones," he said.
"Totoo po, we can see the light at the end of the tunnel. But the only way we can get to the end is if we continue to carefully watch ourselves."
(It is true. We can see the light at the end of the tunnel. But the only way we can get to the end is if we continue to carefully watch ourselves.)
