Philippines’ youngest survivor of COVID-19 dies

Ronnel Manjares takes a photo of him and his son Kobe, who was supposed to turn two months old on June 12. Kobe died on Wednesday night, June 3, 2020, due to complications in his intestines. Photo from Rosalyn Manjares

MANILA, Philippines — Baby Kobe, the country’s youngest survivor of the coronavirus disease, died on Wednesday night due to complications involving his intestines, his father confirmed.

Born on April 12, Kobe Manjares was initially diagnosed with COVID-19 when he was only five days old. He later recovered and was discharged from the National Children’s Hospital in Quezon City on April 28, but on May 1, he was sent back to the hospital due to constipation.

Kobe’s father Ronnel Manjares confirmed the baby’s death to INQUIRER.net on Thursday.

“Opo. Kagabi po (Yes. Yesterday night),” he said in a phone interview when asked to confirm the news.

“Naging sakit po niya ‘yung kanyang bituka. Nagkaroon po siya ng infection sa dugo. Tumataas, bumababa po ‘yung kanyang blood sugar. Lumalaki, lumiliit po ‘yung tiyan niya,” he also said.

(He had a complication in his intestines. His blood was infected. His blood sugar level increased and decreased irregularly. His stomach also swelled and contracted.)

Ronnel, a construction worker, said he has not been able to go to work since the quarantine started. He said he is now only looking after his eldest child, a one-year-old daughter.

He said his wife also does not have a job and that they do not have enough money to pay for the burial expenses of Kobe.

Those who want to extend help to Kobe’s family may contact Ronnel at 09519992328.

Edited by JE