DTI chief tests positive for COVID-19

MANILA, Philippines — Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez, who has been pushing for further reopening the economy through measures like bringing back mallwide sales during the holidays, has tested positive for COVID-19.

Although the result came out on Monday, it was publicly confirmed by Lopez only on Wednesday after reporters asked him about the rumor on Viber. According to him, he was exposed to someone who tested positive Tuesday last week, prompting him to get tested on Sunday.

The 60-year-old Lopez, who was asymptomatic, said he was in isolation, although he had participated virtually in public events of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on Wednesday like a press conference, a congressional hearing and a summit on manufacturing.

He also said he did not have any interaction with President Duterte.

Lopez is the fourth Cabinet secretary to test positive for COVID-19 after Public Works Secretary Mark Villar, Education Secretary Leonor Briones and Interior Secretary Eduardo Año.

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