President Rodrigo Duterte will forego his weekly speech supposedly scheduled on Wednesday, his close aide said, citing concerns on COVID-19 cases.
Duterte canceled his public address since some members of the Presidential Security Group tested positive for COVID-19, Sen. Bong Go said.
"Dami positive including SND (Defense Sec. Delfin Lorenzana) and some PSG," Go told reportr when asked about the cancellation.
The President is negative for COVID-19 and is in Manila, he added. Duterte last appeared in public during his weekly address on March 29.
Malacañang later added that the "physical safety of the President remains our utmost concern."
"In addition, the preparation for the Talk to the People Address entails a number of staff complement and we also take due consideration of their well-being," Duterte's spokesperson Harry Roque said.
Several of Duterte's Cabinet members have caught COVID-19 in recent days as a wave of renewed infections plagued the Greater Manila Area.
Aside from Lorenzana, Communications Sec. Martin Andanar, and Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque have previously tested positive for the virus last month.
ALSO READ:
Defense Chief Delfin Lorenzana Gets COVID-19
Communications Sec. Martin Andanar Tests Positive for COVID-19
Duterte Spokesman Harry Roque Says He's Now COVID-Free