A third Negros Occidental mayor has tested positive for COVID-19 in four days.
Silay City Mayor Mark Golez on Wednesday night, September 22, announced that he has tested positive for COVID-19.
Earlier, Kabankalan City Mayor Pedro Zayco and Talisay City Mayor Neil Lizares also tested positive for COVID-19.
All three had attended a Love Negos political gathering with other Negros Occidental officials at Nature’s Village Resort in Talisay City on Saturday, September 18.
Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson, former Rep. Alfredo Benitez, board members Ryan Gamboa and Jeffrey Tubola , and mayors Marvin Malacon of EB Magalona, and Francis Palanca of Victorias who also attended the Love Negros gathering tested negative for COVID-19 on Thursday, September 23.
Golez, in a statement issued Wednesday, assured Silaynons that there is nothing to worry about because he is exhibiting mild symptoms and is fully vaccinated against the virus.
“Rest assured that strict quarantine protocols have been observed in my isolation and that prompt and precise contact tracing has been conducted in order to immediately identify and contain those I have come in contact with,” Golez said.
The Silay mayor’s office has been locked down for disinfection until Sunday. None of the employees at the City Mayor’s Office were tested for COVID-19 since they had no close contact with Golez, Silay City Administrator Jose Edward A. Davila said.
Golez called on everyone to be extra careful whenever outdoors and to cooperate with the government’s mandate in addressing the pandemic.
He also stressed the need to observe all safety protocols and to get vaccinated.
ISABELA MAYOR
Meanwhile, Isabela Mayor Irene Montilla said on Thursday that she has recovered from COVID-19.
Eight employees of the Isabela municipal government have also tested positive for COVID-19, she said.*