BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Bacolod City Mayor Alfredo Abelardo “Albee” Benitez yesterday declared that he has tested positive for COVID-19.
Upon his arrival in Manila yesterday from official leave, Benitez said he had himself tested for COVID-19, prior to a meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
The result was positive. Benitez added that he feels “okay”, but has mild symptoms.
The mayor, along with some of the members of Bacolod City Council and allied barangay captains, went on a three-day trip to Japan last week, barely five months after the May 9 elections.
In a post by former Bacolod City Councilor Ceasar Distrito, he said that the group was led by Mayor Benitez, Rep. Greg Gasataya, Atty. Caesar Distrito, Councilors Simple Distrito, Thaddy Sayson, Kalaw Puentevella, Al Victor Espino, Celia Flor, Vladimir Gonzales, Pao Sy, Jayson Villarosa and former councilors Sonya Verdeflor, Bart Orola and former Negros Occidental Board Member Patrick Lacson.
Sixteen Team Asenso barangay captains of Bacolod City also joined them.
Benitez urged his companions to be tested for COVID-19.
Flor, who is still in Manila, said she tested negative for COVID-19.
She added that the other councilors are scheduled to undergo COVID-19 testing at the BAYS Center in Bacolod City.
Benitez assured his constituents that the day to day tasks of the City would continue to function while he will be working from home.
To all the people of Bacolod City, the challenges of Coronavirus is still there. Stay safe always, Benitez said in his social media account.*
