ARMED Forces of the Philippines Chief-of-Staff Felimon Santos Jr. has tested positive for the novel coronavirus, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana confirmed on Friday, March 27.

Lorenzana said the military chief has been on home quarantine since March 24, after he came in contact with a senior military official whose infection was confirmed earlier.

Lorenzana will himself go on home quarantine beginning Friday.

“I had close proximity with him on 2 occasions: in VAB during the turnover of medical supplies to me last Sunday and again last Monday afternoon, 22 March, here in GHQ and at the Heroes Hall, Malacañang,” Lorenzana said.

“I have no symptoms but protocol says I have to self-quarantine for 14 days,”he added.

Lorenzana said Santos informed him about the test result when he received it Thursday, March 26.

In a statement, the AFP said Santos will also be on a strict home quarantine for 14 days starting on March 27.

The AFP chief will be closely monitored by the military physicians from the V. Luna Medical Center.

"He is well and in good health condition. He will be in his military quarters where he will continue the discharge his duties and responsibilities while under strict home quarantine,” the military said.

Santos will be assisted by AFP Vice Chief of Staff Gaudencio Collado, Jr. who shall oversee the daily operational activities while Deputy Chief of Staff Erickson Gloria will attend to administrative matters. (SunStar Philippines)