Active COVID-19 cases in House of Representatives now at 33 —Sec. Gen.

The number of COVID-19 infections at the House of Representatives is now at 33, according to House Secretary General Mark Llandro Mendoza on Thursday.

"Actually nadagdagan siya, ang active cases is 33 na," Mendoza said in a message.

Mendoza said they are waiting for the clearance from doctors of seven patients, which will note that they have already recovered from COVID-19.

Mendoza also clarified that the number does not include lawmakers Martin Romualdez, Mike Defensor, and Jocelyn Sy Limkaichong as they had their COVID-19 tests outside the House of Representatives.

The House of Representatives is placed on a four-day lockdown amid the rising number of COVID-19 cases in Metro Manila. The lockdown will start on Thursday, March 18, and will last until Sunday, March 21.

House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco said the temporary lockdown is a precautionary measure to protect the health and safety of House members and employees.

Velasco said House members and employees would have access through the usual Zoom and livestream platforms during committee meetings, public hearings, and other activities.

Velasco further urged the public to remain vigilant and strictly observe health protocols.

"These are small steps that will surely help us in a big way to protect ourselves and our loved ones from contracting the virus as we continue the battle against this deadly disease. So please don’t let your guard down," Velasco said. --KBK, GMA News