By CNN Philippines Staff

The COVID-19 case fatality rate in the National Capital Region has been declining since early 2021, independent research group OCTA reported on Saturday.

Data from OCTA showed the NCR's overall case fatality rate fell to 1.6% in the first quarter from the 2.32% recorded in 2020.

The number also dropped to 1.02% in the April to May period.

For the June 1 to July 6 period, OCTA said COVID-19 deaths in Metro Manila further slipped to 0.78%.

"The decrease in CFR from 2020 to 2021 may be largely attributed to improvements in treatment and management of COVID-19 cases, the continued improvement in efforts of our healthcare workers, and the efforts of the national and local governments in scaling up hospital capacity and equipment," OCTA said.

It added the government's vaccination drive has helped pull down the number of COVID-19 deaths, especially among Filipinos aged 40 and above.

"It is clear that the inoculation of Filipinos, especially those in the... priority groups help reduce deaths," OCTA said.

Earlier this week, the government said the Philippines already hit the 12 million mark in administering coronavirus shots.