AFP medical team to manage Rizal Memorial Coliseum quarantine facility

A medical team from the Armed Forces of the Philippines will manage the operations of the Rizal Memorial Coliseum quarantine facility in Malate, Manila for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients.

In a statement issued Monday, the AFP said the 100-bed isolation facility would be manned by an emergency medical team from the AFP Health Service Command, which includes four military doctors, nine military nurses and 17 medical aides.

"The AFP takes pride in our military doctors, nurses, and security personnel who continue to risk their lives battling the dreaded disease in the frontlines," AFP chief General Felimon Santos Jr. said.

"The military organization is grateful, especially to our members manning the temporary treatment facilities in aid of our people who currently face the threat of the virus,” he added.

The AFP added that an administrative staff consisting of six military officers and six enlisted personnel would also be part of the team.

A blessing ceremony was held and attended by senior military officers led by Colonel Nelson Pecache, the AFP Surgeon General; Lieutenant Colonel Barbara Lolloni Conte, Chief of Health Care Services, RJTF NCR CARE; and Major Service representatives.

Also present were retired Brigadier General John Pulido of the Office of the Secretary, Department of Public Works and Highways; representatives from the Department of Health; and other NTF COVID-19 personalities.

The government partnered with several private firms to help convert Rizal Memorial Complex and other sports complexes and convention centers into quarantine sites for COVID-19 patients. — Anna Felicia Bajo/RSJ, GMA News