Ateneo Jesuit Residence locked down after priest tests positive for COVID-19

The Jesuit Residence at the Ateneo De Manila University campus in Loyola Heights, Quezon City was locked down on Saturday after a priest tested positive for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

According to the University, Fr. Emerito Salustiano "Salty" de la Rama, who died last March 24, was found to be positive for the novel coronavirus illness.

The lockdown was expected to last up to 10 to 14 days.

Ateneo said none of the 34 other community members displayed COVID-19 symptoms. Nevertheless, they would be tested for the illness in the following days.

“While on lockdown and isolation, the JR community will be in deep prayer, and will be joining the Jesuit Province’s Holy Week Retreat online. We call on everyone to fervently pray for the safety and well-being of our Jesuits,” it said.

The Philippines reported a total of 712,442 confirmed COVID-19 cases, of which 581,161 have recovered and 13,159 have died. — DVM, GMA News