MANILA, Philippines — The number of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases in the House of Representatives has reached 70 after another personnel was confirmed to have contracted the disease.
House Secretary General Jose Luis Montales said Monday the Congressional staff last reported for work on August 26, during which she became a close contact of personal security detail.
The staff’s principal and officemates all tested negative, said Montales.
Montales earlier reminded employees to physically report for work only when physical presence is necessary.
“Do NOT physically report for work when experiencing or have experienced any of the COVID-19 symptoms within the last 14 days. When in doubt, assume the COVID 19-like symptom to be COVID-19,” the House official said.
Montales said appropriate penalties for violations of House’s health and safety protocols will be imposed. [ac]