AFP gets P68M worth of PPE, medical supplies from Australia

The Australian government has donated additional medical supplies and personal protective equipment worth P68 million to the Philippine military which aims to help in improving the latter's COVID-19 response.

According to the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the donations will be utilized by the AFP Health Service Command (AFPHSC) to continuously address the challenges brought about by the pandemic.

"In the midst of a complex and volatile security environment, Australia has continuously extended its support in the endeavors and advocacies of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and of course, our national government. In particular, Australia has been a dependable partner in confronting the prevailing health crisis,” AFP chief General Cirilito Sobejana said in a statement.

Sobejana said the additional aid came at the right time as there is a need for improved medical resources to ensure the safety of military personnel who also serve as frontliners in this health crisis.

"The AFP has undoubtedly stood strong and resilient in the midst of this pandemic, yet we also recognize the need for better and accessible medical equipment to vigorously ensure the welfare of our personnel," he said.

Sobejana, meanwhile, assured the donors that the donations would be maintained and maximized accordingly. He also expressed his gratitude to the Australian government and ensured the persistence of a steadfast partnership.

“The Armed Forces of the Philippines will continuously work alongside our Australian counterparts to promote our shared interests and aspirations of our two nations and to further strengthen our decades-long mutually beneficial partnership,” Sobejana said.

Aside from Sobejana, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana also graced the turnover of donations held at the GHQ Canopy area in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Thursday. Representing the donors were Steven Robinson AO, the Australian Ambassador to the Philippines, and Colonel Paul Joseph Barta, the Defense Attaché, Australian Embassy Manila.

Australia's initial donation of hospital and personal protective equipment were given to the Victoriano Luna Medical Center last year.  —Anna Felicia Bajo/LBG, GMA News