The priests and personnel of the Basilica del Santo Niño de Cebu in the Philippines are under quarantine after “suspected” cases of coronavirus have been detected inside the convent, CBCP News reported Saturday, May 13.
Swab tests have already been conducted by the Cebu City health department to all the friars and staff staying at the convent.
Fr. Andres Rivera Jr., the prior provincial of the Augustinian Province of Cebu, said the suspected Covid-19 cases were detected on May 25.
“While waiting for the test results, all friars and personnel are being quarantined within the basilica convent,” Rivera said in an advisory released Saturday.
The priest informed the public that the basilica will remain closed until further notice but the faithful can take part in the online mass through the basilica’s Facebook page.
“As of this moment, we are in constant coordination with the city health officials as well as with the barangay officials,” Rivera said.
“With their help and guidance, we ensure the public that everything is properly managed and there shall no cause for further alarm and distress,” he also said.
