Duterte to be tested for COVID-19, says Palace

March 12, 2020

President Rodrigo Duterte will be tested for coronavirus disease to ensure that he is healthy and fit to do his job, Malacañang said on Thursday.

Senator Christopher Lawrence "Bong" T. Go, who always joins Duterte in his activities, will also undergo similar test, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a statement.

"While PRRD and Senator Go do not have the symptoms of the virus, they have opted to undergo the test to ensure that they are fit and healthy to perform their duties as government workers," he said.

Panelo said the two officials are undertaking the "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."

Among the Cabinet officials who decided to undergo self-quarantine are Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III and Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade.

Panelo said the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases is set to meet Thursday, March 12, to discuss urgent measures that will be undertaken to respond to the recent "disturbing development" vis-à-vis the COVID-19.

Duterte's visit to Boracay Island in Malay, Aklan Thursday has been postponed due to COVID-19 development.

"The Palace urges the public to observe and practice the protocols on personal hygiene and social distancing established by the DOH to help contain the disease. The Palace also reiterates its appeal to our countrymen to stay calm yet vigilant, as well as not to believe or spread any false information on COVID-19," Panelo said. Celerina Monte/DMS