Sotto tests negative for COVID-19

Senate President Vicente Sotto III on Friday said he tested negative for COVID-19.

“Finally, my RT-PCR result came out. Negative! Praise GOD,” Sotto told reporters on Friday night.

Sotto earlier said the Senate will be placed on lockdown for a week after 46 employees of the chamber tested positive for COVID-19.

At least 175 employees were placed under quarantine due to exposure and manifestation of COVID-19 symptoms. They are also waiting for the results of their COVID-19 tests.

Sotto's running mate, Senator Panfilo "Ping" Lacson, on Friday said he has tested positive for COVID-19.

In a tweet, Lacson said he underwent RT-PCR on Tuesday, January 4, and the result came out on Thursday, January 6.

The House of Representatives earlier announced that it would extend the lockdown of the chamber, also from January 10 to 16. House operations will resume on January 17. -- BAP, GMA News