Staff at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd say goodbye to colleague Zaldy Manalo who died after contracting coronavirus

Staff at a North Wales have said goodbye to a colleague who lost his life after contracting the coronavirus.

Rizal Manalo, known as Zaldy to his friends and co-workers, died last month having been treated at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd’s critical care unit.

Zaldy, 51, had worked at as a nurse at both Glan Clwyd and Abergele Hospital since August 2001, when he was recruited from the Phillippines.

Today a large number his colleagues lined up outside the hospital to pay their final respects as his funeral procession passed through the grounds.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board said he was well loved by all his patients and staff on ward five.

Ahead of his funeral, the health board shared a compliment Zaldy received from a patient around a year ago.

In a post on Facebook, the workforce team said: “Almost a year ago to the week, Zaldy was presented with the Friday “Feel Good” certificate after a patient commented on his highly professional nursing and caring ability.

“We thought a re-posting of this compliment would be suitable and a fitting tribute to a highly respected and dedicated nurse.

“The comment read: This week’s compliment is for: S/N RIZAL “ZALDY “ MANALO.

“The male nurse looking after me was so good and took the time to check I was OK.

“Did his job brilliant to be honest, made me feel at ease. I’d go as far as saying best nurse I’ve come across.”

“Rest in peace Zaldy and ‘Diolch’”