Several gov't officials self-quarantine after COVID-19 exposure

Several high-ranking government officials, including Cabinet members and senators, are self-quarantining due to potential exposure to COVID-19.

Among the Cabinet members now on voluntary isolation are Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez, Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Education Secretary Leonor Briones, Economic and Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia, BSP Governor Benjamin Diokno, and BCDA chief Vince Dizon.

Other officials undergoing self-quarantine include Senators Sherwin Gatchalian, Nancy Binay, and Panfilo Lacson, along with Mayors Francisco Domagoso of Manila, Sara Duterte-Carpio of Davao City, and several others from Metro Manila.

Finance Secretary Dominguez and BSP Governor Diokno decided to undergo self-quarantine after interacting with individuals tested positive for COVID-19.

The Department of Education Central Office, Department of Finance, and BSP headquarters have temporarily closed for disinfection and to allow for self-quarantine.

Inadequate government response in monitoring and containment is a concern raised by Senator Lacson.

Officials are adopting remote work arrangements and teleconferencing to continue their duties during self-quarantine.