Philippine military chief recovers from coronavirus

Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Felimon Santos Jr. / Photo from AFP PAO

MANILA, Philippines — Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Felimon Santos Jr. has recovered from the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

“We are pleased to announce that AFP chief of staff Gen. Felimon Santos Jr. has been tested negative for COVID-19 following the test conducted by the Department of Health (DOH) and the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM). He is thereby deemed to have recovered although he has not experienced any of the symptoms of [the viral] infection ever since,” AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo said in a statement Sunday.

The AFP chief was diagnosed with COVID-19 on March 27. His second test was released on April 5.

Santos continues to work from his home at Camp Aguinaldo even after he was confirmed positive of the virus. His quarantine ends on April 10.

The AFP chief believed he caught the infection from a senior officer he came in contact with and who had tested positive for COVID-19. The unnamed officer has also recovered from the disease.

“We wish to thank everyone for the continuing prayers and support accorded to the AFP chief and to every soldier, airman, sailor, and marine who tirelessly protect fellow Filipinos and the communities against COVID-19 and other threats to national well-being,” Arevalo said.

He also urged everyone to stay home, use masks, observe proper hygiene, and maintain physical distancing.

As of Sunday, there are 3,246 reported confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the Philippines, with 152 deaths and 64 recoveries.