17 ombudsman employees infected

MANILA, Philippines  — The ombudsman’s central office in Quezon City will remain closed as 17 employees have tested positive for COVID-19.

“Due to the increase in the number of employees infected with the virus, the ombudsman’s office will be closed until April 18,” Ombudsman Samuel Martires said in a memorandum issued over the weekend.

Martires directed unit heads, directors and deputy special prosecutors to implement work-from-home scheme and conduct online meetings.

He said seven of the 17 employees infected with COVID-19 are his subordinates.

Most of those who contracted the virus went on quarantine while others were brought to isolation facilities, Martires said.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration’s licensing branch suspended its operations yesterday after a number of POEA employees tested positive for COVID-19.

The POEA said its licensing unit would remain closed until April 18 to prevent the spread of the virus.

Clients may still submit applications at the designated drop box located at the POEA lobby.

Follow-ups should be done by e-mail.

Clients with prior appointment will be accommodated when the POEA resumes operations on April 19. – Mayen Jaymalin