Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson. Photo from the Provincial Government of Negros Occidental Facebook page
BACOLOD CITY –– Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson and four others have tested negative for the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) after being exposed to a Department of the Interior and Local Government official from Iloilo, who was infected with the virus.
The governor, who had gone on self-isolation, said he was relieved that he did not acquire the virus.
He was expected to return to work today, Jan. 28.
Negros Occidental provincial police director, Col. Romel Palgue, who was also seated near the governor, had also self-isolated while waiting for his COVID-19 test results, Police Lt. Abegael Donasco said.
Donasco said police chiefs of the towns and cities of Negros Occidental were also at the summit but were not seated close to the COVID-19-infected DILG official.
The official was one of 23 DILG personnel in Iloilo who tested positive for COVID-19, Negros Occidental Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz said.
The COVID-19 test results of 18 DILG Negros Occidental personnel were still being awaited.