March 28, 2024

Work continues for the three mayors in the Cordillera, including the country’s contact tracing czar, Baguio Mayor Benjamin Magalong, who have tested positive for Covid-19 last week as cases surged not only in the region but also nationwide.

Magalong has announced on April 3 his RT-PCR test result that came out on April 2 showed he was positive of the virus that causes the Covid-19.

Magalong echoed the appeal of other mayors who tested positive for Covid-19 before him for the public to not take the disease for granted and strictly abide by the minimum health protocols.

“The seriousness of this pandemic is something that we should not take for granted. It is a difficult situation and I don’t want anyone to be in this condition as it is emotionally, psychologically, and financially difficult for our loved ones to bear,” Magalong said in a social media post.

While on quarantine, Magalong continues to perform his duties.

“Despite the predicament I am in, please be assured that we are still monitoring closely the city’s situation and coordinating with proper authorities the necessary things to be done,” he said.

In Abra, Pidigan Mayor Joseph Domino Valera also announced in his social media account he tested positive for Covid-19 on April 3. 

Valera, younger brother of Abra Gov. Ma. Jocelyn Valera-Bernos, is symptomatic and is undergoing home quarantine.

In Benguet, Buguias Mayor Ruben Tindaan announced on April 5 he also tested positive for Covid-19.

He said he has no severe symptoms and continues to dispose off his duties while on quarantine.

In March, several mayors in the region have tested for Covid-19.

In Mountain Province, Bontoc Mayor Franklin Odsey and Sagada Mayor James Pooten, Jr. took to social media their appeal for their constituents to be cautious as they announced they contracted the virus that causes the Covid-19.

Abra Rep. JB Bernos and Dolores Mayor Conde Turqueza have also tested positive for Covid-19 late last month.

In Benguet, the late Kabayan Mayor Faustino Aquisan, who succumbed to cardiac arrest on March 21, tested positive for Covid-19. – Jane B. Cadalig