Sotto backs AFP's role in enforcing strict quarantine measures

Senate President Vicente Sotto III on Sunday backed the involvement of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in enforcing stricter quarantine measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Sotto emphasized that the use of the AFP does not automatically mean martial law, stating it is necessary for public safety.

The day before, President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the military and police to be ready to enforce social distancing and curfew if the public continues to ignore quarantine rules.

AFP spokesperson Brigadier General Edgard Arevalo said the military is preparing its troops but there are no immediate orders from the president to deploy them.

Arevalo stressed that security forces should stop blatant violations of the Bayanihan We Heal as One Act, which could have serious repercussions in the spread of COVID-19.