Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula has tested positive for COVID-19, the Archdiocese of Manila confirmed on Friday evening, September 17.

The 69-year-old Advincula, successor of Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, had been installed as Manila archbishop less than three months ago.

“His Eminence Jose F. Cardinal Advincula, archbishop of Manila, tested positive for COVID-19. Aside from a slight fever, he does not feel any other symptoms. He is on quarantine, observing strict protocols. Doctors are also monitoring his condition,” said Father Reginald Malicdem, chancellor of the archdiocese, in a statement on Friday.

“We appeal for your prayers for His Eminence and for all those who are sick with COVID-19,” Malicdem said.

Advincula is fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

One of Advincula’s latest public events was a Mass for medical frontliners, held on Wednesday, September 15. 

“You are not only doing us a favor,” Advincula told health workers on Wednesday. “you are also doing God a favor.”

“Maraming salamat dahil kahit may mga pagkakataong hindi naa-appreciate ang inyong ginagawa, kahit hindi naibibigay ang nararapat na benefits para sa inyo, kahit kulang ang suporta na natatanggap ninyo, patuloy pa rin kayo sa paglilingkod,” he also said.

(Thank you because, even if there are times that your efforts are not appreciated, even if you do not receive the benefits you deserve, even if the support you receive is lacking, you continue to serve.)

Advincula, who formally assumed the post of Manila archbishop on June 24, is the former archbishop of Capiz. A low-profile prelate, he is the 33rd archbishop of Manila, the symbolic seat of the Catholic Church in predominantly Catholic Philippines. – Rappler.com