Sen. Koko Pimentel stirred a hornet’s nest when he visited a hospital while waiting for result of a COVID test. Here are the stories making the headlines on ANC today:

Reckless
Sen. Koko Pimentel is being criticized when he revealed he brought his pregnant wife to the Makati Medical Center (MMC) while waiting for result of a COVID test. He claimed he found out he was positive while at the hospital and left immediately. Wasn’t he required to stay in isolation while waiting for the results of the test? The MMC issued a strongly worded statement denouncing Pimentel for going to the hospital, saying Pimentel breached strict protocols. Pimentel also denied allegations he sought Health Sec. Francisco Duque’s help to get his wife admitted to the MMC.

Draconian measures
Number of COVID-19 cases breached 600 with 38 dead. The government said 18 million families will get cash aid to help to deal with the pandemic. Interior and Local Government Sec. Eduardo Ano said they will implement “draconian measures” to control the spread of COVID-19.

Farming and fishing
Socioeconomic Planning Sec. Ernesto Pernia said he expects an unemployment rate at double digits should a recession occur due to the COVID-19 crisis. Meanwhile, the Palace clarified that fishing and farming are still allowed during the coronavirus lockdown.

World events
The Tokyo Olympics have officially been postponed. India is going on lockdown with its 1.3 billion people barred from leaving their homes. Prince Charles, heir to the British throne, tested positive for the coronavirus with “mild symptoms.” Italy is threatening jail terms for positive patients violating quarantine. The World Health Organization warned the US could be the next epicenter of the virus.

Sound solutions
UP Diliman's College of Engineering is working on several initiatives to solve problems brought about by COVID-19. ANCX lists them down and lays out how you can help in these efforts.