MANILA, Philippines (Update 1, 1:44 p.m.) — Former Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has undergone a test for COVID-19, his sister, Sen. Imee Marcos said.
Bongbong on Thursday afternoon confirmed Imee’s earlier statement he is “unwell” and said that he is “doing ok and contrary to popular belief, [on self-quarantine].”
The former senator shared a photo of himself holding "The Daily Tribune" newspaper.
Bongbong said that they are still waiting for the results of the COVID-19 test.
“Fortunately, I feel much better and am getting stronger by the day. I have no doubt in my mind that this is partly due to excellent work of the nurses and doctors who helped me during this time,” Bongbong added.
Trip from Spain
News5 reported that Imee confirmed that Bongbong returned from a trip in Spain “unwell.”
Bongbong underwent a test for the novel coronavirus disease two days ago and results have yet to be released.
“Finally got a test two nights ago, getting better at home, (pero) wala pang result,” Imee was quoted as saying.
Kinumpirma ni Sen. Imee Marcos na na-confine sa ospital ang kapatid niyang si Bongbong Marcos matapos sumama ang pakiramdam. Pero nasa bahay na ngayon si BBM habang hinihintay pa ang resulta ng pagsusuri kung nahawaan siya ng #COVID19. | via @maeannelosbanos pic.twitter.com/QyOdjIT9UG
— News5 AKSYON (@News5AKSYON) March 26, 2020
Marcoses flew to Singapore?
Rumors of Bongbong being intubated at a hospital for a supposed pneumonia diagnosis swirled Wednesday night.
A STAR report dated March 24, meanwhile, said that Imee was advised by her doctors to avoid public gatherings since she has a cough.
Former Philippine Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Reuben Lista, a conveor of Alyansang Duterte-Bongbong, denied the rumors that Bongbong was airlifted to Singapore.
He also refuted reports that Imee was also unwell and flew to Singapore with her brother,
“Tell them that she is very busy calling on friends and government officers for PPEs, masks, food, money and other needs of front liners and our people,” Lista said.
At least four lawmakers have announced that they tested positive on COVID-19. They are Sens. Miguel Zubiri, Koko Pimentel, Sonny Angara and Rep. Eric Yap (ACT-CIS party-list). — Kristine Joy Patag with report from News5/Meann Los Baños