House records 8th confirmed COVID-19 case

MANILA, Philippines — House of Representatives on Saturday reported its eighth confirmed COVID-19 case which involved a Congressional staff member.

“It is with a heavy heart that we announce our 8th confirmed case of COVID-19,” House Secretary General Jose Luis Montales said in a statement sent to reporters.

“He was in Quezon City from June 17-23 during which he stayed in the staff house and visited their office once… He is presently in his province,” he added.

Montales said the infected staff interacted with his fellow staff member, chief of staff and a consultant.

The House official said the chief of staff tested negative for novel coronavirus, the virus that causes COVID-19, while the other staff member and consultant will soon undergo testing.

Montales also noted that close contacts of the infected personnel are under quarantine and strict monitoring.

Last June 9, Montales reported that two House employees were diagnosed with COVID-19. The employee is assigned at the Printing Office while the other is at the Engineering Department.