MANILA - Bicol confirmed its first 3 cases of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on Friday, joining a long list of regions in the Philippines hit by the pandemic.

In a statement, the Department of Health-Center for Health and Development in Bicol identified the patients as PH763, PH765, and PH766.

PH763, a 48-year-old woman, was admitted at the Bicol Medical Center, while PH765, a 50-year-old man, and PH766, a 53-year-old man, were both confined at the Bicol Regional and Training Hospital.

No other details were provided.

The DOH CHD-Bicol said they are still validating the new cases and will coordinate closely with hospitals and local government units for contact tracing of those who were exposed to the patients.

Dr. Ernie V. Vera, regional director of the DOH CHD–Bicol, said strict infection control measures were enforced in hospitals for the safety of health workers.

He also called on Bicol residents to strictly follow precautionary measures and stay home.

"Likewise, please refrain from spreading unverified information to avoid panic and fear. Additional information shall be provided as soon as available," said the DOH CHD – Bicol.