PBBM on 5-day isolation, positive for COVID

PRESIDENT Marcos Jr. will discharge his duties, including attend scheduled meetings via teleconference, while he is in isolation for the next five days at the “Bahay ng Pangulo” after testing positive for the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) late Monday night took to social media to announce that the President had tested positive for the virus and has been advised by his doctors to observe the mandatory five-day isolation period.

“The President remains fit to carry out his duties and will be continuing his scheduled meetings via teleconference. Updates on his health will be provided as available,” the PCO said, adding that Marcos is encouraging the public to take precautions to safeguard their health, such as vaccinating and voluntary mask-wearing when entering crowded places, especially during the holiday season.

Prior to the announcement, the President attended the Family Day celebration of the Office of the President over the weekend.

His planned visits to Surigao and Marawi this week have been cancelled.

The President was infected with COVID-19 in 2020 and again in July last year.

In a social media post, Pasig City mayor Vico Sotto said he has likewise tested positive for COVID-19.

“I’m posting this to ask for apology to everyone who has a scheduled meeting with me this week. I’m pretty sure you don’t like to have a meeting with me with a runny nose. Let’s all follow protocol,” Sotto said.

NEW LAWS

While in isolation, the President yesterday signed into law the Public-Private Partnership Code of the Philippines (PPP Code) and the Internet Transactions Act of 2023.
In a news release, Marcos said the signing of the two laws are important as it shows the commitment of the government and the readiness of the country to accelerate its development and embrace digital economy.

Republic Act 11966 or the PPP Code, establishes a stable and predictable environment for collaboration between the public and private sectors to address gaps in the infrastructure systems and free up much-needed resources to enable the government to pursue other equally important projects and initiatives.

It incorporates best practices from over