Caloocan Bishop Emeritus Iñiguez tests positive for COVID-19

The bishop emeritus of Caloocan tested positive for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) but is now in stable condition at a hospital, the National Shrine and Parish of the Divine Mercy announced Sunday.

In a Facebook post, the parish said Most Rev. Deogracias Iñiguez Jr. tested positive on Saturday.

“He is in the hospital right now but in stable condition. We urge everyone for fervent prayers to ask the mercy of God for Bishop Deogracias' speedy recovery,” it said.

“Due to this, services at the Divine Mercy Shrine have been suspended until all priests and personnel in the rectory are tested. We assure the public that we are doing all the necessary health protocols to stop the spread of the virus,” it added.

Deogracias is the second prelate to test positive for COVID-19 after Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo, who has since recovered from the respiratory disease.  — DVM, GMA News