AFP can deploy medical units for Covid-19 patients

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) can activate field hospitals and deploy medical units to support public and private hospitals treating Covid-19 patients if needed.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana stated that while the AFP is prepared, additional personnel may be required.

As of July 16, the country had 61,266 confirmed cases with 21,440 recoveries and 1,643 deaths.

The AFP has deployed medical teams to Cebu to assist in containing the rising number of cases there.

AFP spokesperson Marine Major Gen. Edgard Arevalo reported that the military is 'vigorously' implementing health protocols against Covid-19, including contact tracing and stringent screening measures.

Currently, the AFP has 221 active cases with 148 recoveries; out of these, 126 have returned to work after recovery.