Communications Secretary Martin Andanar on Monday confirmed rumors that he has tested positive for the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
Andanar made the confirmation after a supposed copy of his test results leaked online.
In a statement on Monday evening, he said that he immediately underwent home quarantine after learning of the result and his close contacts were already traced.
"I would like to confirm that I have, unfortunately, tested positive for COVID-19. Though I am asymptomatic, I was immediately isolated and placed on home quarantine," he said.
"Contact tracing of those I have interacted with has also been done in accordance to the rules set by our authorities, and to ensure the safety of my staff, of my family, and of the public," he added.
In a separate message to reporters, Andanar said he tested positive upon his return to Manila from the Dinagat Islands on March 27. In his statement, he denied reports that he breached quarantine protocols.
"Do not entertain the claims of malicious gossip mongers that are being circulated through text messages," he said.
"I would not violate travel restrictions, as these strict protocols are in place for our safety, more importantly, I would never jeopardize the well-being of others," he added.
The Palace official reminded the public to take extra caution as no one is immune to COVID-19.
"Anyone can be infected, which is why we need to strictly adhere to the safety protocols," he said.
"I also call on those in areas under ECQ (enhanced community quarantine) to be extra vigilant and to follow the extra measures set in place by our government, they are for everyone's safety," he added.
Meanwhile, Andanar said that he will continue discharging his functions as secretary of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO).
"Rest assured, I am okay and I will still continue to work hard and to perform my duties well, including hosting regular shows to inform the public, as I recuperate from the virus," he said.
To date, 330 individuals have tested positive in the PCOO and its attached agencies and offices. In the PCOO proper, 11 are active cases.