Quezon City City Mayor Joy Belmonte on Wednesday confirmed that she tested positive for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
She was found to be asymptomatic. However, Belmonte did not mention where she got the disease.
On her official Facebook account, the mayor announced that her latest swab test showed she was COVID-19 positive.
“I'm thankful that I immediately learned about it. Right now, I am in a better situation, and that I have not felt any symptoms (of the infection). I am now strictly observing the quarantine protocols of our Department of Health as the city’s Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit has started contract-tracing procedures,” Belmonte said.
“Apart from this, we have temporarily closed my office to disinfect it as well as the common areas at the city hall,” she added.
Belmonte said she does not regret visiting the city’s health centers, hospitals, special concern lockdown areas, and the other communities to personally see the needs of the people.
The mayor said she already knew she would face the risk of getting infected.
“I have already prepared myself for that and I wholeheartedly accept it,” Belmonte said.
“These things still happened despite the safety precautions, such as wearing of the face mask, habitual hand washing and social distancing. This should serve as a reminder that COVID-19 is a different kind of disease that we really have to be extra careful with ourselves,” she added.
Amid her quarantine, Belmonte gave the assurance of the city’s continued public service.
“Despite my limited movement, I will still stay focused on the situation (on the ground) and the needs of Quezon City,” she said.
“Thank you so much and rest assured that once I get well, I will be with you to personally serve you,” Belmonte added.