MANILA, Philippines — Another lawmaker in the House of Representatives—this time, Gabriela Rep. Arlene Brosas—has tested positive for the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
Brosas confirmed the news during the hearing of the House committee on appropriations on the proposed 2021 budget of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
The lawmaker joined the hearing through videoconferencing.
“I feel fine right now kasi mild case siya. Tapos nagpa-announce na rin ako sa House of Representatives kung kailan ako nandiyan para alam ng lahat for contact tracing,” Brosas said when her colleagues wished her fast recovery during her interpellation.
Montales said that with the confirmation of Brosas’ case, there are now 15 active COVID-19 cases in the lower chamber as of September 16.
Montales added that Brosas is the 10th member of the House to have contracted the disease. She is also the 75th COVID-19 case in the lower chamber including personnel and employees.
Several lawmakers in the lower chamber have tested for—and eventually recovered from—COVID-19.
However, Senior Citizens Party-list Rep. Francisco Datol died of acute respiratory distress due to COVID-19, as confirmed by Senior Citizens Party-list nominee Rodolfo Ordanes.
Sorsogon Rep. Ditas Ramos also passed away after testing positive for coronavirus.