MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte will meet several Cabinet members on Sunday to discuss the appeal of health workers to place Metro Manila under a strict lockdown as the capital continued to see a surge of COVID-19 cases.

"The President will meet today with key cabinet members today to discuss yesterday’s letter from the frontliners," said Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque.

"I will make the proper announcement in due course," he added.

• Duterte directs IATF to act on medical community's call for ECQ in Metro Manila - Roque

On Saturday, health workers overwhelmed by COVID-19 patients needing hospital care urged government to shift Metro Manila back to enhanced community quarantine for 2 weeks.

• Exhausted health workers want 'breathing space', seek Metro Manila's return to ECQ
• 'Last 2 minutes': Philippines losing COVID-19 battle, doctor warns

The health professionals said the country's health care system has been overwhelmed, with hospitals temporarily closing to decongest and health workers falling ill.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III has said government would do more to "care for our carers" with detailed plans for support, such as lodging, transportation, food and provision of protective equipment.

• 'We hear you,' says Duque to health workers calling for stricter lockdown

On Saturday, the Philippines reported 4,963 new cases, a third day of record-high COVID-19 infections that raised the nationwide total to 98,232.

• Philippines sees record new COVID-19 cases for 3rd straight day