Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar is hopeful for the quick recovery of Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III after he got infected with the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

In a statement, Andanar offered prayers that Bello could regain better health so he could sustain his vital work in the labor department.
Bello went on self-quarantine in his home town in Isabela after he tested positive for the coronavirus, the labor department announced Tuesday, August 17. The Cabinet official is asymptomatic and remains on top of his health, the department added.
"We extend our prayers of speedy recovery and good health to Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III following the unfortunate news that he had recently contracted COVID-19," Andanar said in a statement.
"We hope for the swift recovery of Secretary Bello so that he can continue fulfilling his duties and responsibilities to the Philippine government, our Filipino laborers, both here and abroad, and the general public. And also continue his exemplary work in doing his part in assisting us all in our path to recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic," he added.
Andanar also appealed anew to the public to observe health protocols to avoid contracting the illness.
"With the unfortunate circumstance of Secretary Bello, we continue to remind everyone to follow all health and safety protocols against the virus," he said.
The public is also urged to get vaccinated as soon as possible to "gain immunity," according to Andanar
"Let us all work together and do our part, so that we may heal and recover as one nation," he said.
Of the 42 million doses of vaccines in the country, more than half of the jabs have already been administered to priority sectors including health workers, seniors, people with comorbidity, and essential workers. Over 12 million people have been fully vaccinated so far.
Apart from the vaccination drive, the government has imposed movement curbs in Metro Manila and other parts of the country to stem the rising case of infections. The country has recorded 1.6 million cases of infections, including 105,787 active cases and 30,462 deaths.