The Palace has confirmed President Rodrigo Duterte and Senator Bong Go will undergo COVID-19 test and self-quarantine to make sure they are fit to function as government officials.
Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said the President has no symptoms but will undergo testing since the chief executive often meets with cabinet members, some of whom have earlier announced that they would undergo self-quarantine, following their exposure to those infected with COVID-19.
“They are undertaking this pre-emptive step as per advice of health officials given that they have regularly engaged with Cabinet officials, some of whom have opted to undergo self-quarantine as they were exposed to those infected with COVID-19,” he added.
The cabinet members who announced to undergo self-quarantine include Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez who faced the public for a press conference of economic development cluster on March 10. Budget and Management Secretary Wendel Avisado also confirmed he will undergo self-quarantine as he was present on the same event.
The Department of Education (DepEd) also confirmed a person who joined their meetings on February 28 and March 5 tested positive for COVID-19, thus placing DepEd Secretary Leonor Briones on home quarantine.
Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte will also be on “voluntary monitored home quarantine” as an employee of hers was listed as person under monitoring (PUI).
Meanwhile, Presidential Security Group (PSG) commander Col. Jesus Durante said that parts of the Malacañang Palace will be cleaned and disinfected especially the second floor where the President regularly have meetings.
Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar shared that the Malacañang Press Briefing Room, Press Working Area, and other areas within the New Executive Building (NEB) will also undergo disinfection.
“We also appeal to the other members of the MPC and PCOO personnel who may have been exposed to voluntarily go on self-isolation and seek medical attention to avert the possible spread of infection,” he added.
The Palace has appealed to the public to be calm, observe social distancing, maintain personal hygiene, and to not spread false information on COVID-19. – Report from Naomi Tiburcio
