AFP chief Faustino positive for COVID-19 after RT-PCR test

Armed Forces chief Lieutenant General Jose Faustino Jr. has tested positive  for COVID-19 after undergoing an RT-PCR test on Monday.

“I received confirmation that I have tested positive to COVID-19 with the result of my RT-PCR this afternoon,” Faustino said in a statement.

Faustino, who is fully vaccinated, said he is “in high spirits to continue performing my job, albeit in quarantine.”

“I will remain in command of the AFP but will continue to follow the prescribed isolation protocol to ensure the safety of those I work with and my family,” he said.

According to him, he intended to join virtually the Western Mindanao Command Change of Command Ceremony on Tuesday despite his condition.

“Allow me to take this opportunity to encourage everyone to support our government's vaccination efforts and to get inoculated with a COVID-19 vaccine whenever and wherever they can,” he added.

At a press conference earlier in the day, AFP spokesperson Colonel Ramon Zagala announced that the AFP chief tested positive for COVID-19 in an antigen test. — RSJ, GMA News