Koko Pimentel tests positive for COVID-19

Senator Aquilino Pimentel III said Wednesday that he has tested positive for coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

"I was informed late last night March 24, 2020 that I have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. The swab was taken last Friday, March 20, 2020," Pimentel said in a statement.

"Since the last day of session March 11, 2020 I had already tried my best to limit my movement. I will call (to the best of my ability) those I remember meeting during those crucial days so that I can inform them of my test result," he added.

The senator is optimistic that he is "on the way to recovery."

He, however, lamented that he could not be with his wife Kath who is expected to give birth to their first child.

"Prayers for Kath as she is due to give birth anytime now," he said in a separate message to reporters.

He said he accompanied his wife  to the hospital yesterday but immediately left after learning of the COVID-19 result.

"Yes (I was with Kath yesterday) as she  was scheduled to give birth this morning. I received the call from RITM when I was already in the hospital last night hence I left immediately," he said.

Pimentel said he is still under self-quarantine and now feeling better.

He said he had a fever last March 18 and experienced slight sore throat, body pain, and diarrhea.

He expressed gratitude to the health care workers whom he called heroes for serving the public despite the COVID-19 threats.

He likewise urged the public to observe social distancing and other precautionary measures against the virus.

Last week, Senate Majority Floor Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri also tested positive for COVID-19 after experiencing slight fever.—AOL, GMA News