By Martin Sadongdong
At least 35 personnel of the Philippine National Police (PNP) were confirmed positive for coronavirus disease (COVID-19) on Friday (May 15), bringing the total number of infections in the organization to 214.
However, the recovery rate among infected cops was at 30.84 percent (66 recoveries) which was described as "relatively good" by Brigadier General Herminio Tadeo, director of the PNP Health Service.
Of the total number, four personnel died while 144 active cases are undergoing supportive health care from PNP doctors.
Among the active cases, 94 patients are in quarantine facilities, seven are admitted in hospitals, and 43 are undergoing home quarantine.
"We are taking great steps to fast-track the conduct of mass testing among police frontliners and we also expect the increasing trend of positive cases among PNP personnel in the coming days," Tadeo said.
He added that at present, the PNP Health Service is also monitoring 703 probable cases and 450 suspected cases, while 836 probable cases, 869 suspected cases, and 16 confirmed cases have so far completed self or home quarantine under strict monitoring and medical observation.
Meanwhile, the PNP Headquarters Support Service will conduct disinfection and decontamination procedures in Camp Crame prior to the re-entry of personnel starting Monday (May 18) following the transition of some areas, including Metro Manila, to a modified enhanced community quarantine.
PNP Spokesperson Brig. Gen. Bernard Banac said the disinfection and decontamination will be held from Saturday (May 16) to Sunday (May 17) to prevent a surge in new infections.
"All office and units are advised to install portable sinks or wash basins and foot baths at the entrances so all personnel may...wash or disinfect their hands before entering workspace premises," Banac said.