Mayor Benjie B. Magalong resigns as Contact Tracing Czar:

"I was involved in a recent incident where several lapses in protocol were committed. In hindsight, being a senior officer of the Task Force, I should have done an immediate spot correction of the errors that I witnessed at that time.

Much as I have given my best to discharge my duties for the Task Force, this incident has been a reminder that a higher standard is always expected of me.

It pains me to see my family, and my constituents, in anguish over this but I am committed hold myself accountable and do what is necessary to rectify this misstep.

Should the Task Force or even the DILG deem it necessary to launch an investigation over my actions, I am ready and willing to cooperate.."

UPDATE: The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases turned down on Friday the resignation of Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong as contact-tracing czar over alleged lapses during the recent birthday celebration of showbiz personality, Tim Yap.

"We confirm that Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong tendered his resignation as the government's Tracing Czar," presidential spokesman Harry Roque Jr. said on Friday.

The IATF, however, rejected Magalong's resignation, following the reported violation of quarantine protocols in the city.

"Mayor Magalong's resignation, however, has not been accepted. He continues to enjoy the trust and confidence of the leadership of the National Task Force (NTF) Against COVID-19," Roque said.

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