BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Bishop Gerardo Alminaza of the Diocese of San Carlos in Negros announced Sunday that he has tested positive for Covid-19.
Alminaza said that he is now under quarantine, and submitted himself to treatment.
“Now, God allows me to be on the other side among the infected of this dreaded virus,” the 61-year-old Negrense bishop said in a statement he issued.
Alminaza said Msgr. Erwin Magnanao, vicar general of the Diocese of San Carlos, will take over his responsibilities for the time being.
“Rest assured that I am given the best possible medical attention available,” he stressed.
Alminaza also asked for prayers for his fast healing as well as for other Covid-19 patients.
Alminaza is the 11th Filipino prelate to contract the disease, the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines said in a press statement yesterday.
Meanwhile, San Carlos City Mayor Renato Gustilo resumed work at City Hall, after he also tested positive for Covid-19.
The City of San Carlos logged 41 active cases, as of June 20. Of the 1,757 confirmed cases, the LGU reported 1,644 recoveries and 72 deaths.*