The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported Sunday that 503 frontline personnel tested positive for the novel coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19).
The PCG had 77 new cases, bringing the tally of active cases to 248.
The figures reported were recorded between July 23 to 25.
The PCG said the personnel have been immediately pulled out from their stations and provided with medical assistance and other resource support for their immediate recovery.
But it stressed that 255 personnel have also recovered from the dreaded disease, with 96 new recoveries.
“The Command conducts regular swab tests and ensures that its frontline personnel are equipped with sufficient supplies of vitamins, PPE (personal protective equipment) sets, and other medical supplies in the performance of their duties,” PGC said.
Aside from having rest periods and work breaks, all PCG personnel were also undergoing debriefing sessions to uphold their well-being amid the ongoing pandemic.
This as the PCG was among the frontline agencies leading the transportation of Locally Stranded Individuals (LSIs) back to their home provinces and conducting swab tests at the country’s main port of entry, on top of their regular duties, especially during the rainy season.
Meanwhile, the PCG said they are planning to explore the utilization of ultraviolet lights to aid the manual disinfection of work spaces and billeting areas, as well as the establishment of a quarantine facility that will solely cater to PCG officers and personnel who will need to isolate as a precautionary measure amid the ongoing global health crisis.