AFP has more than 200 active COVID-19 cases, says Gapay

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief General Gilbert Gapay on Monday said COVID-19 infections in the military have increased to over 4,500.

Of the number, more than 200 are active cases while at least 4,300 have already recovered from the disease.

"Right now, mayroon tayong 227 active COVID-19 cases out of sa natalang more than 4,500," Gapay said in an interview on Dobol B sa News TV.

"Our organization is not spared, mayroon din tayong naitalang 33 deaths," he added.

Soldiers are among the frontliners implementing the quarantine protocols amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Gapay said more or less 150,000 troops are deployed to enforce these regulations.

"Number one na marching order natin sa kasundaluhan, dapat ang sundalo ang magiging last man standing. Gagawin natin 'to, kailangan 'yung strict adherence sa protocols and guidelines sa lahat ng kampo at units," Gapay said.

He reminded his men to properly observe health protocols, such as wearing of face masks, washing of hands, and observing social distancing, to avoid the spread of COVID-19 infections among soldiers. —KBK, GMA News