Ex-Philippine president Arroyo tests positive for Covid-19

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Former Philippine President and now Pampanga 2nd District Representative Gloria Arroyo has been tested positive for the deadly Covid-19 respiratory disease, her chief of staff said.

Former President Gloria Arroyo

Erwin Krishna Santos said the 75-year old politician tested positive in separate Covid-19 tests on July 15 and 22 and is now under quarantine. 

He said Arroyo is under the care of her personal physician, Dr. Martha Nucum, adding the aging lawmaker has been religiously taking the prescribed medicines and supplements. 

Santos said Arroyo will be unable to attend President Bongbong Marcos first State of the Nation Address due to her health condition. He did not provide other details of Arroyo’s condition.

Marcos also survived the deadly disease after being tested for Covid-19 on July 8.

This was also confirmed by Press Secretary Trixie Angeles, citing the latest health bulletin released by Marcos’ personal physician Dr. Samuel Zacate. “Dr. Zacate gave the happy news that on the 5th and 6th day of his isolation, the President is now free from all symptoms of Covid-19,” she said.

Despite testing positive for Covid-19, Marcos has not slowed down from his work and has been presiding cabinet meetings via teleconferencing. (Mindanao Examiner)