Dr. Sally Gatchalian, 9th doc to pass away in Philippines after battling with COVID-19

Philippine Pediatric Society president Dr. Sally Gatchalian died after battling with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

According to a report in Dobol B sa News TV on Thursday morning, the doctor's sister Ruby Rodriguez confirmed the news.

Gatchalian also serves as assistant director at the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM).

Last week, Rodriguez said her sister was confined at a hospital. "She is weak but stable," the actress wrote on Twitter.

In her latest social media post, Ruby wrote a farewell message to Gatchalian.

"We will only remember you with happy memories, laughing and sleeping, your johnson outfits and all... Be at peace, do not worry about us anymore. Have fun in heaven! Love you so much!" she said.

My sister, Manang sally, this is our Christmas 2019 family picture. Finally were complete. We will only remember you with Happy memories, laughing and sleeping, your johnson outfits and all, how u love bling bling,… https://t.co/XpJmWzpj7Z

— ruby rodriguez (@rodriguezruby) March 26, 2020

Dr. Rustico Jimenez, president of the Private Hospitals Association of the Philippines, said Gatchalian was the ninth fallen doctor amid the health emergency.

"Pang-siyam na po si doktora Sally," Jimenez said in an interview at Dobol B sa News TV.

The other "fallen" healthcare experts were Dr. Israel Bactol, cardiologist, Philippine Heart Center;  Dr. Raul Jara, cardiologist, Philippine Heart Center;  and Dr. Marcelo Jauchico of Pampanga Provincial Health Officer—AOL, GMA News