There is no cause for alarm over the COVID-19 situation in the House of Representatives which will continue its usual operations despite test results indicating that 98 of its personnel are positive for the coronavirus disease.
Secretary General Mark Llandro Mendoza said the COVID-19 positive individuals who underwent tests last November were found to have acquired the coronavirus infection not at the Lower House but in their respective communities.
“We will continue to welcome visitors while legislative offices will remain open but with skeleton force as staff. Strict health protocols are being implemented,” Mendoza told House reporters in a news forum.
He stressed that the 98 who tested positive for COVID-19 are the remaining cases, adding that except for five fatalities, the 93 congressmen and employees who tested positive before the November 10 mass testing have already completely recovered.
Mendoza pointed out that prior to November 10, tests were conducted only on individuals already experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.
He said Speaker Lord Allan Velasco ordered RT-PCR mass testing shortly after sessions resumed last month as part of the safety protocols to ensure the welfare of the employees and members of the Lower House, including the public.
Mendoza said the House leadership is planning to conduct another RT-PCR testing after the Christmas break next January.
According to the House official, the medical department of the chamber has already informed the Department of Health and the barangays of the concerned employees who will be undergoing quarantine requirements. In the same news forum, Mendoza said the Lower House will also attempt to negotiate access to COVID-19 vaccines for House employees and members.