Alan Cayetano tests positive for COVID-19, Escudero in isolation

Senator Alan Peter Cayetano has tested positive for COVID-19, according to Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri.

During the plenary session Wednesday, Senator Pia Cayetano, Alan's sister, manifested on the floor that the latter texted her to express his support for her privilege speech, where she discussed how the Senate could adopt sustainable living by ditching the PET bottles and reducing papers in their day-to-day work.

After Pia's manifestation, Zubiri disclosed that Alan has tested positive for the virus.

"Please let him know we're praying for his quick recovery. I heard that he was positive. That is better that we put it on record. Less people will ask where he is," Zubiri said.

Meanwhile, Senator Francis Escudero is currently in isolation after being exposed to a person who tested positive for COVID-19.

"No symptoms. Just exposed. Will test in two days. Just want to be responsible, proactive and not reckless," the lawmaker said in a text message.

According to a member of Zubiri's staff, the Senate President has ordered that all Senate guests and visitors must present a negative antigen test upon entry starting August 8 due to the rising number of COVID-19 cases.

The Office of the Secretary and the Medical and Dental Bureau will release a detailed advisory regarding Zubiri's order. — BM, GMA News