AFP chief Felimon Santos infected with COVID-19

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana confirmed on Friday that Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief General Felimon Santos Jr tested positive of COVID-19.

Santos’ result was released Thursday, and Lorenzana was informed just this morning.

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The Defense chief said he had not shown any flu-like symptoms. He will go on self-quarantine since he had direct contact with the AFP chief.

“Protocol says I have to self-quarantine for 14 days,” Lorenzana said.

“I had close proximity with him on two occasions: in VAB (Villamor Air Base) during the turn over of medical supplies to me last Sunday p.m, March 21, and again last Monday afternoon March 22, here in GHQ and at the Heroes Hall, Malacañang,” he added.

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Lorenzana chairs the government’s national action plan on its fight against COVID-19.

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AFP chief Felimon Santos infected with COVID-19

AFP Public Affairs Office said in statement doctors from V. Luna Medical Center would closely monitor Santos, who will be on strict home quarantine until April 10.

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“He is well and in good health condition. He will be in his military quarters where he will continue the discharge of his duties and responsibilities,” the AFP PAO said.

AFP PAO said Santos had close contact with a senior military official who later tested positive for COVID-19.

It also asked those who had contact with Santos beginning March 13 to 27 to observe self-quarantine.

On Thursday, Santos said a senior military official and his wife tested positive for COVID-19.

The couple was admitted to V. Luna as persons under investigation (PUIs) on March 15.