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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Senator Koko Pimentel is clear of COVID-19

Senator Koko Pimentel is clear of COVID-19

Published May 2, 2020 12:00 am
By Vanne Terrazola Senator Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III is COVID-19-free. He confirmed this on Saturday, May 2, after Senate President Vicente Sotto III bared in an interview over radio DWIZ that all the three senators who contracted the novel coronavirus have already recovered from the disease. Senator Koko Pimentel (ALBERT GARCIA / MANILA BULLETIN) Senator Koko Pimentel (ALBERT GARCIA / MANILA BULLETIN) Pimentel said he was informed that he is now considered a "recovered person" after his sample tested negative for the coronavirus. "That is what my staff told me. But better ask DOH (Department of Health) if that is already official. Mahirap na magkamali, although I think I am COVID-free already," he said in a text message. According to Pimentel, he has been under quarantine for 44 days since undergoing a test for COVID-19 last March 20. He was informed of his positive result on the night of March 24, while he was at the Makati Medical Center with his wife. "That’s already three 14-day quarantine cycles. Since I am still alive, the sense is that the virus has already run its course, if this is a 'normal' coronavirus," he said. He said his second test was conducted on April 13, the negative result was out 10 days later. Pimentel said he wanted to attend the resumption of their sessions on May 4 but maintained that he would consult his doctor before doing so. The administration senator earlier drew flak for breaching his quarantine to accompany his wife to the Makati Medical Center to give birth. He is now facing charges for supposedly violating the Republic Act No. 11332 or the Mandatory Reporting of Notifiable Disease and Health Events Act. Pimentel's wife, Kathryna, gave birth to their daughter on March 29. They called their child a "miracle baby,” after being spared from COVID-19. Earlier, Sens. Juan Miguel Zubiri and Juan Edgardo "Sonny" Angara announced that they have also recovered from the dreaded disease.Members of the Senate are planning to conduct a hybrid of physical and virtual sessions to cope with the COVID-19 situation.
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