PNP chief tests negative for COVID-19

MANILA, Philippines — Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Archie Gamboa has turned negative for the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), PNP spokesman confirmed Wednesday.

“Negative result ng test niya. (His test results were negative),” PNP spokesman Brig. Gen. Bernard Banac said in a statement to reporters.

Asked if Gamboa got tested because he was experiencing symptoms of the disease, Banac said that his test was just a “precautionary measure” against coronavirus disease.

“Test was done as precautionary measure after possible exposure to asymptomatic persons under monitoring or investigation while performing his duties,” he said.

When asked if Gamboa will subject himself to self-quarantine after Interior Secretary Eduardo Año contacted the disease, Banac said the PNP chief did not have direct contact with Año.

“PNP chief General Archie Francisco Gamboa had no meeting with SILG (Secretary of the Interior and Local Government) lately,” Banac said.

On Tuesday night, March 31, Año said he tested positive for COVID-19 as he called on his close contacts to undergo self-isolation.

Gamboa continued to handle PNP affairs during the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) in Luzon, Banac said.

“He is on duty, up and running the entire affairs of the PNP amid the ECQ. He remains healthy but adapting strict biosafety measures,” the PNP spokesperson said.

PNP Headquarters implemented biosafety measures such as establishing a disinfectant tent, using body temperature scanner and proper disposal of face masks, gloves and protective gear.

As of March 30, PNP recorded seven police personnel who were diagnosed with the coronavirus disease.

Also, 145 PNP personnel are considered as persons under investigation while 1,416 police personnel are listed as persons under monitoring for possible infection of the coronavirus disease.

EDV