Senate placed under semi-lockdown

THE Senate was placed under semi-lockdown after three in-house caterers tested positive for coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

The three caterers tested positive for Covid-19 on Friday, prompting the closure of the executive lounge and canteen for two weeks starting Monday, March 15.

“We will remain in semi-lockdown. Will most probably end sessions by 6 p.m.

Health protocols will be stricter,” Senate President Vicente Sotto 3rd said in a text message.

“We cannot not continue work because we have two weeks before the break and there are many bills from the House of Representatives that we need to act on,” the senator said.

“Of course nandun ako (I’ll be there). Sessions are not official if there is no senator in the Senate physically present,” Sotto added.

Senate Secretary Myra Marie Villarica on Sunday advised employees to bring their own food and drinks for the duration of the 14-day closure.

“Everyone is reminded to observe all health protocols to ensure safety and protection in and outside one’s workplace,” Villarica added.

Five senators contracted Covid-19 in 2020 — Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, Ramon “Bong” Revilla, Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel 3rd, and Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri.