PNP death toll due to COVID-19 now at 44

Total fatalities due to COVID-19 among police personnel is now at 44 after a policeman died of the disease on Sunday, the Philippine National Police said on Monday.

In an update, the PNP said the new fatality is a police staff sergeant from Police Regional Office 3 who tested positive for COVID-19 on April 6.

“Patient no. 44 is a 48-year male cop, died on April 11 in Bulacan due to acute respiratory failure secondary to severe pneumonia,” PNP chief Police General Debold Sinas said.

Sinas assured the bereaved families of the deceased police personnel that they will receive benefits and financial assistance.

With 227 new infections recorded on Sunday, the total number of COVID-19 cases in the police force is now 17,405, including 2,430 active cases.

A total of 14,931 PNP personnel have already recovered from the disease, according to PNP data.

On Sunday, Sinas urged cops to strictly observe minimum health standards against COVID-19 and to seek medical attention if they experience symptoms.

"All PNP personnel must observe strict Mandatory Health Protocol, no home quarantine and no self-medication. If you are experiencing any symptoms of the virus immediately seek medical attention," he said. —KBK, GMA News