Mall quells rumors of closure due to ‘Covid-positive’ workers

By Jennifer P. Rendon 

Unconfirmed reports have been circulating on social media over the alleged possible closure of a mall located in Mandurriao, Iloilo City.

The reason: some of its employees allegedly tested positive for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

But SM City Mall on B. Aquino Jr. Ave., Mandurriao district issued a statement debunking claims circulating in social media.

The message, which was written mostly in Hiligaynon, reads: “Goodeve. Pls iwas kmo anay sa smct mam. May positive. Wala gina balita kay sensitive case basi ipa close. 4 janitors, jollibee crew and sa grocery store. Gin rapid test this week ang mga employees sng SM.”

The sender claimed that it was just forwarded to him/her by his student and wasn’t sure if it’s true.

In response, SM City-Iloilo management denied the report.

In a statement, it said, “as part of SM Supermalls’ commitment to create a safe and healthy environment for everyone, we have conducted a voluntary COVID-19 antibody rapid testing for all employees and agency frontliners in a venue outside our mall premises.”

Further, “contrary to the information circulating online, SM City Iloilo has not received any reports from the DOH nor the LGU on any positive cases for COVID-19 related to the mall employees or its tenants as of this time. We would like to remind the public that only DOH or LGU can release any official reports on positive or negative COVID-19 cases.”

The mall management also encouraged everyone not to readily believe any information being circulated from other sources.