SENATOR Aquilino “Koko" Pimentel III on Wednesday, March 25, announced that he has tested positive for the novel coronavirus, which causes coronavirus disease (Covid-19).

Pimentel is the second senator to contract the new coronavirus, next to Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri.

In a statement, Pimentel said he was informed of the test result Tuesday night, March 24, 2020. Swab samples were taken from him on March 20.

"Since the last day of session March 11, 2020 I had already tried my best to limit my movement. I will call (to the best of my ability) those I remember meeting during those crucial days so that I can inform them of my test result," he said.

Pimentel said that he strictly followed self-quarantine measures upon the advice of his doctor.

"I have quarantined myself upon the doctor’s advice and consistent with the protocol, I feel I am, with God’s help, on the way to recovery," Pimentel said.

"I would like to ask for your prayers, especially for my wife Kath, who is about to give birth in the next few days to our first baby girl, and with whom I cannot be at this very important point in our lives as parents," he said.

The senator thanked frontline healthcare workers and urged the public to observe social distancing in order to stop the spread of the virus.

"I also urge all of us to observe the social distancing, enhanced community quarantine measures, washing of hands and personal hygiene being implemented because they are the best strategies to beat this disease at this time. I have faith that together we can overcome these challenging times," he said. (SunStar Philippines)