By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga
Silay City Mayor Mark Golez has become the third mayor in Negros Occidental in three days to be infected with COVID-19 after attending a party luncheon of Love Negros officials on September 18.
In a post on his Facebook account, Golez said, “It is with heavy heart that I inform everyone that I have tested positive for COVID-19.”
“Nevertheless, I assure you, my fellow Silaynons, that there is nothing to worry as I am only exhibiting mild symptoms and I am FULLY VACCINATED against the virus. Rest assured that strict quarantine protocols have been observed in my isolation and that prompt and precise contact tracing has been conducted in order to immediately identify and contain those I have come into contact with,” the mayor said.
He said, “With the occurrence of this unfortunate event, I implore everyone to be more extra careful whenever outdoors and to cooperate with the government’s mandate in addressing this pandemic. We need to understand that it is vital to always exercise Safety Health Protocols set by our Inter-Agency Task Force Against COVID-19 and the Department of Health so as to protect our family and loved ones from the spread of this virus. I am also encouraging all Silaynons who are still unvaccinated to coordinate with your Barangay Health Workers so you can be scheduled in our forthcoming vaccination activities.”
“As we work hand in hand, this COVID-19 pandemic will surely pass. We shall overcome this crisis once and for all. Let us heal together as we build a better community for everyone. Let us not be afraid in facing this challenge as God is with us through all the events of our lives,” the city mayor added.
To recall, the first to be hit by COVID-19 was Kabankalan City Mayor Pedro Zayco on Monday, followed by Talisay City Neil Lizares on Tuesday.
Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson and capitol consultant Alfredo Benitez along with 11 mayors allied with Love Negros have undergone swab tests yesterday.
Provincial administrator, Atty. Rayfrando Diaz, also confirmed yesterday that Lacson, Benitez, two other mayors, and a board member were tested negative of COVID-19./DGB, WDJ