MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has activated the PCG Task Force Laban Coronavirus amid the increasing cases of individuals infected by 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) in various areas in the country.

PCG Commandant, Admiral Joel S Garcia has directed Commodore Armando A Balilo of the Civil Relations Service (CRS) Command to identify nurses and medical technologists of the armed service to compose the 100 seven-man team, led by Captain Eric Steven S Guieb of the PCG – Medical Service.

Captain Guieb shall train the 700 members of PCG Task Force Laban Coronavirus and coordinate their deployment to medical facilities that cater to persons under investigation (PUIs) and COVID-19 patients, as directed by the Department of Health (DOH).

“The PCG Task Force Laban Coronavirus shall be provided with hazardous material suit, goggles, and gloves. They shall also have thermal scanners, masks, and alcohols to implement precautionary measures against the contagious virus and conduct necessary medical assistance,” Commodore Balilo said.

Furthermore, PCG ships and other floating assets shall be dispatched for possible medical evacuation.

Meanwhile, Admiral Garcia urges officers and personnel of the PCG to build up their immune system, to be proactive in addressing COVID-19 symptoms, and to educate their families about the importance of proper handwashing as a precautionary measure against the virus.

“I exhort the men and women of the PCG to pray for the eradication of COVID-19 in the Philippines. Let us come together and pray for the reduction of confirmed cases and for all PUIs to be free from the virus,” Admiral Garcia added.

The PCG remains at the frontline of national emergencies, together with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Proactive efforts are now being implemented to ensure that COVID-19 will be contained and eradicated in the soonest possible time, through the cooperation of public and private sectors, as well as the general public.