BY BEN ROSARIO
The number of reported COVID 19 cases in the House of Representatives rose to 78 Friday after a security detail and a library staff tested positive for the dreaded disease.
The Office of the Secretary General disclosed that the security staff reported for work on September 7 and 9, “rendering mostly office duties at their barracks.”
The second to test positive is an employe from the Legislative Library Service.
“She has been working from home since July 24.
She experienced symptoms after taking care of her brother who was confined at a hospital due to some injuries,” said the House announcement.
On Wednesday, Gabriela Partylist Rep. Arlene Brosas disclosed she caught the 2019 coronavirus.
However, despite her condition, Brosas still actively participates in the on-going budget hearings being conducted by the HOuse Committee on Appropriations.
On Friday, Brosas interpelated officials of the Department of Health who presented the agency’s proposed 2021 budget.
Budget hearings being conducted by the appropriations panel chaired by ACT CIS Partylist Rep. Eric Go Yap have continued despite the continued rise in COVID-19 cases in the Lower chamber.
Plenary session have also not been suspended although House officials continue to assure the public that health and safety protocols are strictly being implemented. (Ben R.Rosario)
