POLICE personnel in the Cordillera region were ordered to wear a mask as a measure against the threat of infection from the 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV).
The order was handed by Philippine National Police Chief General Archie Gamboa to newly installed Police Regional Office-Cordillera (PRO-COR) director Brigadier General R’win Pagkalinawan.
Pagkalinawan assured police personnel of the issuance of masks and the availability of rubbing alcohol products in all offices of PRO-COR.
“This move by our Regional Command is in consonance with the directive issued by our chief PNP. What is important here is for us to ensure and protect the health of our Police personnel particularly the men on the ground which is why PRO–COR will be distributing health equipment that would guard its personnel from the said virus,” the newly installed Regional Director stated.
One woman was included as patient under investigation (PUI) by health officials in the region who recently went to Hong Kong while her boyfriend and their relatives are undergoing self-quarantine.
“Despite the 2019-nCoV ARD threat, police personnel in the region will continue their active operations. What should be considered here is just the protection of policemen which is why to set an example, we will be providing face masks for our sentry guards at the gate of Camp Dangwa including the offices aside from providing them with hand sanitizers and reminding them on the practice of proper hygiene,” he added.
Pagkalinawan echoed the call of the chief PNP and health authorities to remain calm and informed amid the global public health emergency, and instead focus attention and effort in promoting personal hygiene, and strengthening of the immune system thru proper nutrition and healthy lifestyle.