Sorsogon City’s Miss Universe Philippines (MUP) candidate Maria Isabela Galeria announced on social media that she tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19).
“With so much sadness in my heart, I regret to inform you that I tested positive for COVID-19 rtPCR. This news breaks my heart deeply and I apologize if ever I put you at risk,” she said in an Instagram post on Sunday.
The 21-year-old model and registered nurse said despite following safety precautions, she still ended up contracting the disease. She added that her MUP team, sisters and those she had contact with in Manila all tested negative.
“I am in isolation and quarantined now,” she said.
Galeria then apologized to whoever she came into close contact with to inform their city or municipal health officers to check on their condition.
“I am truly, deeply sorry. Kindly find it in your hearts to include me and my family in your prayers,” she ended.
In the comments section of her post, her fellow beauty queens and her followers sent her words of encouragement as she battles COVID-19.
Galeria is one of the 51 candidates vying for the Miss Universe Philippines crown. The finals of the major beauty pageant will be aired on October 25 on GMA.
