By Minka Klaudia Tiangco
Health Secretary Francisco Duque III confirmed that three doctors, who were on the frontlines in the fight against the coronavirus disease-2019, have passed away.
Department of Health Secretary Dr. Francisco Duque III
(PCOO / MANILA BULLETIN)
"Saludo ang mga Pilipino sa mga pumanaw na health workers (The Filipinos salute the health workers who passed away)," he said in an interview with DZBB on Monday.
"Ito'y bayani na talagang binuwis nila ang kanilang buhay sa pangangalaga sa kanilang kapwa mamamayan na may sakit (These are heroes who gave their lives to treat their fellow Filipinos who were sick)," he added.
On Sunday, Manila Doctors Hospital announced that Dr. Greg Macasaet, a renowned anaesthesiologist, succumbed to COVID-19.
He left behind his son and his wife, Dr. Evalyn Macasaet, who also reportedly tested positive for the disease.
The Philippine Heart Association (PHA) also reported the passing of a young cardiologist due to COVID-19.
Meanwhile, the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) issued a statement on the death of a College of Medicine alumnus who was a doctor to the barrios.
It has not yet been confirmed if the PHA member and the PLM alumnus are the same person.
Per the Department of Health's latest data, the Philippines now has 380 COVID-19 cases with 25 deaths and 17 recovered patients.