Re: Workers’ Self-Quarantine and Disinfection of NEB Premises

On Wednesday, 11 March 2020, we had the weekly economic briefing at the Malacañang Press Briefing Room with some officials of the Department of Finance (DOF) and the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) in attendance.

Prior to the briefing, some concerned DoF officials had been with Finance Secretary Sonny Dominguez who has now gone on self-quarantine after exposure to a confirmed COVID-19 case during a recent Senate hearing.

In light of this, we have already ordered the disinfection of the Malacañang Press Briefing Room, Press Working Area, and other areas within the New Executive Building (NEB). Some members of the Malacañang Press Corps (MPC) who covered the economic briefing also deemed it best to undergo self-quarantine.

We also appeal to the other members of the MPC and PCOO personnel who may have been exposed to voluntarily go on self-isolation and seek medical attention to avert the possible spread of infection.

Work from home arrangements in accordance with the guidelines released by the Department of Labor and Employment and the Civil Service Commission may be considered. We will also plan for virtual press briefings to ensure that the regular briefings will not be disrupted.

At this point in time when public health is at risk, we seek everyone’s understanding and cooperation in taking the necessary precautions and in following safety protocols.

Thank you.