Medical experts: No to reduced physical distancing | Evening wRap

Today on Rappler – the latest news in the Philippines and around the world:

• Medical experts oppose reduced distancing on public transport

The health department stands by its recommended 1-meter distance between commuters despite the move to reduce physical distancing in PUVs starting Monday, September 14. Health workers share the same sentiment.

• Metro Manila cemeteries closed on Undas 2020

The mayors of Metro Manila agree to close cemeteries on Undas, or the Philippines’ annual holiday to commemorate the dead.

• 6 years after killing Jennifer Laude, US soldier Pemberton now a free man

Convicted killer United States Marine Joseph Scott Pemberton is now a free man, after 6 years in detention at a special facility inside military headquarters. He was deported from the Philippines Sunday morning, September 13.

• Filipina Mela Habijan wins Miss Trans Global 2020

Mela Franco Habijan wins Miss Trans Global 2020 in a virtual pageant Saturday, September 12. Mela beats 17 other candidates, including 4 other Filipino transgender women.

• FALSE: Hospitals can claim up to P750,000 for COVID-19 treatment regardless of actual cost

Posts circulating in private messaging apps say hospitals can claim between P43,000 to P750,000 in benefits from PhilHealth for every COVID-19 patient admitted, regardless of the actual cost of treatment. This is FALSE. – Rappler.com