Manila Rep. Abante tests positive for COVID-19

House Deputy Speaker and Manila 6th District Representative Bienvenido "Benny" Abante confirmed Wednesday that he tested positive for COVID-19.

"As part of regular precautions we have undertaken in our home to protect ourselves, our family, and our loved ones from COVID-19, I recently got tested for COVID. This morning I received the results of my test, which revealed that I am COVID-positive," Abante said in a statement.

Abante said he already reached out to those he got direct contact with in the previous days, adding that they were already advised to go on self-quarantine and monitor themselves in the coming days for any COVID-19 symptoms.

Abante said he is currently experiencing some body pains but he is being monitored by his doctors.

"Aside from being fully vaccinated, I have also received my booster shot––and it is clear, in my view, that the vaccines have helped me in these two bouts with the virus," he said.

"I enjoin everyone––especially senior citizens like myself––to get vaccinated and to get their booster shots, especially with the rising number of COVID cases in the country," Abante added.

Abante said it was already his second time to get infected with COVID-19.

The lawmaker urged the public to strictly follow the health protocols as he also joins the public in praying for the recovery of those who contracted the virus and for the safety of those in the frontlines of the COVID-19 battle. — RSJ, GMA News