Bontoc mayor tests positive for COVID-19, UK variant cases rise

Bontoc Mayor Franklin Odsey has tested positive for COVID-19, reporting his diagnosis on January 15 and currently isolating at home.

The town has confirmed 12 cases of the UK variant of the virus, with three patients currently in the hospital and three on home isolation.

In response, four central barangays in Bontoc have been placed under strict enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) until January 31.

The local government is converting three hotels and two public schools into additional treatment and monitoring facilities.

Mayor Odsey is requesting national government assistance for an additional testing site, kits, contact tracers, medical personnel, and relief goods.

Bontoc has coordinated with other local governments in Mountain Province for stricter border control.

As of January 23, Mt. Province has a total of 581 COVID-19 cases, with 274 active infections, 305 recoveries, and two deaths.