The COVID-19 virus is still around. 

In Bicol, at least 28 cases were recorded by the Department of Health (DOH) Bicol from May 12 to 18, 2024, marking a 133 percent increase compared to the 12 cases recorded from May 5 to 11.

April 28 to May 4 - 7 cases, with a percentage increase of 17%,
May 5 to May 11 - 12 cases, with a percentage increase of 71%
May 12 to May 18 - 28 cases, with a percentage increase of 133%

Camarines Sur reported the highest increase with 18 cases, followed by Albay with eight cases. One case was recorded in Masbate and one other was a traveler who tested positive while in the Bicol region. 

On May 21, Sagñay Mayor Jovi Fuentebella announced on social media that he tested positive for COVID-19.

The mayor is in quarantine, as of this writing, to prevent transmission of the virus.

“Pangtulo ko na ining COVID-19, so malamang po nakua ko ini kang Tuesday (May 21), nagsakay ako ning bus tapos may nagaabo po sa bus [tapos] mayo na akong mask,” Fuentebella said.

The mayor advised his constituents to take precautions and follow health protocols to avoid contracting COVID-19.

The DOH has advised the public to stay alert and continue practicing precautionary measures against COVID-19, such as wearing facemasks in crowded places and avoiding complacency, particularly for those with comorbidities and those who are unvaccinated.

“Apod ta man sa mga local na gobyerno [na] ipadagos itong dating sistema na surveillance, contact tracing and so on. Tapos kun may namamatean na — lalo na pag mga senior citizen, mayong history ning bakuna o may comorbidity, magpakonsulta sa pinakaharaning health center,” Dr. Rey Millena of DOH Camarines Sur, said.

The country remains classified as low risk for COVID-19.