A health worker who received the coronavirus vaccine died but the government clarified that it was not due to inoculation. The latest fatality was reported as the country continued to see an alarming surge in COVID-19 cases.
These updates and other stories on the unauthorized sale of COVID-19 vaccines, Metro Manila's water supply, and a Voltes V recycled art dominate the latest dose of news on Thursday morning, March 18, 2021.

- Health authorities have tried to allay concerns arising from the death of a vaccine recipient, saying it was caused by the viral disease.
- Stay vigilant as the country recorded another huge spike in coronavirus cases.
Despite the rising number of infections, the government believes granular lockdowns, not "big lockdowns," are the way to go to contain the virus spread.
- Senator Risa Hontiveros is calling for better protection of the workers' health and wellbeing amid the pandemic.
The labor department has yet to receive reports of COVID-19 case spike in the workplace.
- Coronavirus vaccines are not yet for sale in the Philippines, according to a government advisory.
As the nation battles the pandemic, the local drug regulator warned that a veterinary medicine has not been approved for treatment for the coronavirus disease.
- Metro Manila and nearby areas can be assured of sufficient water supply if everything goes according to government's plan.
- Will schools be ready for the resumption of in-person classes? The education department is preparing checklists to determine the preparedness of schools.
- A proposed ban on flavored e-cigarette products has earned the support of health advocates.
- Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo Puyat is batting for smart tourism innovation to boost industry recovery amid the pandemic.
- From trash to treasure. This local artist has created his favorite action figure from recycled materials.
- Meet the Filipino scientist about to carve his name in history.