Cadiz City Mayor Salvador Escalante Jr. has tested positive for COVID-19.
He has a cough and fever and is confined at the Bacolod Adventist Medical Center, Escalante said Thursday, October 7.
Escalante, who has had two Sinovac jabs, said he received the news that he tested positive for COVID-19 on Wednesday.
The office of the mayor has been disinfected and persons who came in contact with him have been tested for COVID-19, Escalante said.
“Despite all precautions and strict observance of all safety and health protocols at the office and during official business, I was infected by the virus. This probably is inevitable. It goes without saying that the risk comes with the job description and I am oftentimes required to have face-to-face meetings with people in the interest of public service and good governance,” he said in a statement on the Cadiz City Facebook page.
“I am making this public announcement not to cause any alarm or stir, but to assure everyone that I have with me that Cadiznon spirit. Just like you, my dear Cadiznon, I will prevail over this disease and I am presently recovering well by God’s mercy and grace,” he added.
Escalante strongly advised everyone to continuously cooperate with government authorities and observe the minimum public health standards.
“Do not grow weary of these protocols as they are designed to protect you and our community,” Escalante said as he urged his constituents to get vaccinated in order to protect themselves and their loved ones.*