Bulacan governor starts work from home after contracting COVID-19

CITY OF MALOLOS, Philippines  — Bulacan Gov. Daniel Fernando tested positive for the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) on Friday (Aug. 28), but will continue to perform his duties online while he undergoes mandatory isolation for 14 days, he announced in a statement on Saturday (Aug. 29).

The governor said he remains asymptomatic.

Fernando took the test because he was exposed to Board Member Ramil Capistrano, who is a coronavirus patient. Capistrano posted his condition on social media at the start of the week. He is also asymptomatic.

“Let us be mindful that even world leaders and top government officials have been infected with the virus, as it spares no one and is a disrespecter of individuals, whoever they are. I, therefore, call on everyone to act responsibly and continue to observe health standards and protocols to save lives,” Fernando said.

On Thursday (Aug. 27), Capistrano attended a virtual session of the Provincial Board where the official said he was doing fine while in quarantine at his house in San Rafael town.

Fernando directed the province’s contact tracing team to locate people with whom he had interacted before he submitted to quarantine.

Fernando said his absence from the Capitol will not disrupt the delivery of basic services, which he will continue to oversee from home.