Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque will undergo a rapid antibody test despite already testing negative for coronavirus disease (Covid-19) through a reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test.
To recall, Roque underwent RT-PCR testing in a drive-thru testing facility in Taguig City on Tuesday.
“I am pleased to announce that the results of my RT-PCR test conducted yesterday in Taguig City yielded a negative result,” he said in a statement.
However, Roque said he decided to also take a rapid antibody test before attending a meeting with President Rodrigo Duterte and other Cabinet members on Wednesday evening.
“Be that as it may, I will exercise prudence and will still subject myself to a rapid test upon entry prior to the meeting today with President Rodrigo Roa Duterte,” he said.
Roque also vowed to stay far from Duterte as much as possible since he recently interacted with Public Works Secretary Mark Villar during the groundbreaking of Cavitex segments 2 and 3 last Friday.
“As a precautionary measure, I will stay at farthest end of the room and will apply the health protocol of wearing a mask, keeping distance and sanitizing and washing of my hands,” Roque added.
Villar, in a separate statement, confirmed that he tested positive for the disease and will undergo isolation.
He will also skip the scheduled inspection of the new terminal building of the Clark International Airport in Pampanga.
According to Roque, Villar was recently named as the country’s “isolation czar” among government officials tapped to lead the country’s response to the pandemic.
The Presidential Security Group (PSG) vowed to stay on “high-alert” status over the health and safety of Duterte despite the easing of quarantine restrictions in Metro Manila.
PSG commander Col. Jesus Durante said all screening procedures initially established would still be in effect, such as the “mandatory rapid antibody detection testing and disinfection of engagement areas.”
There would also be other existing health security protocols, such as the “no invitation, no entry” policy that is imposed on all visitors and guests, he added.
He said events with the possible attendance of Duterte would only be restricted to small group private meetings while engagements that require large crowd gatherings would be discouraged. (PNA)