Another Negros Occidental mayor test positive for COVID-19

BACOLOD CITY––Another mayor in Negros Occidental has tested positive for COVID-19, the third mayor infected within four days.

Silay City Mayor Mark Golez announced Wednesday night, Sept. 22, that he contracted the virus.

He joined Kabankalan City Mayor Pedro Zayco and Talisay City Mayor Neil Lizares, who recently tested positive for COVID-19.

All three mayors attended a “Love Negros” political gathering with other officials at the Nature’s Village Resort in Talisay City on Saturday, Sept. 18.

Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson, former Rep. Alfredo Benitez, and other officials tested negative for COVID-19.

Golez, in a statement issued Wednesday, assured Silaynons that there was nothing to worry about because he is exhibiting mild symptoms of the virus.

“Rest assured that strict quarantine protocols have been observed in my isolation and that prompt and precise contact tracing has been conducted immediately to identify and contain those I have come in contact with,” Golez said.

The Silay mayor’s office has been on lockdown for disinfection until Sunday. None of the City Mayor’s Office employees were tested for COVID-19 since they had no close contact with Golez.

Golez called on everyone to be extra careful, especially when going out of their homes, and observe all safety protocols.

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