MABALACAT City Vice Mayor Geld Aquino has asked his constituents to pray for public and religious leaders, including Mayor Crisostomo Garbo and a Catholic priest, who contracted Covid-19.

The vice mayor said he was saddened after learning that Garbo and other city officials and Monsignor Jose Lacap, parish priest of the Our Lady of Grace Church, acquired the virus.

"We were saddened by the news that our beloved mayor was infected with Covid-19," Aquino said.

"I humbly request everyone to offer prayers for the speedy recovery of our city mayor, some department heads, government workers, and also Reverend Monsignor Jose Lacap of Our Lady of Grace Parish and to all people that were recently infected by the virus," he added.

Aquino appealed to the people to practice health protocols like social distancing, washing and disinfecting of hands, wearing of face covers and others, to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

"Covid-19 is real. The number of affected individuals is rising immensely. With this, I encourage everyone to still be vigilant and take all precautionary measures against this deadly virus," he said. "Practice social distancing, regular hand washing and wearing of face mask and face shield at all times."

Garbo said he is now recuperating inside a medical facility.

"Let me reiterate to my Kabalens that we should take this pandemic seriously and do our part in order to stop the spreading of the virus," the mayor said.