AFP calls on Filipinos to strengthen faith to hurdle COVID-19 challenge

April 6, 2020

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) called on Filipinos to strengthen their faith and the nation will be able to hurdle the challenges brought by the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

"The Armed Forces of the Philippines join  the Christian faithfuls worldwide in a peaceful and pious observance of the Lenten Season amidst the challenge we are facing as a nation and as a people combatting COVID-19," AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Felimon Santos Jr. said in his Lenten message on Monday.

"As we mark the start of the Holy Week, let us be reminded of God’s infinite love and mercy that He sent His only begotten son to bring us salvation. Let us draw inspiration from Christ’s suffering and passion in the cross where in the end He triumphed over death. Let us have the faith that we will be able to hurdle this test of Filipino resilience and indomitable spirit— confident that this, too, shall pass," he said.

"Your AFP shall stand guard steadfastly to help shield our communities not only from the dreaded disease, but also against the virus of the Communist terrorist  group, local terrorist group, and other enemies of the state. I enjoin every member of the AFP to heed the call to selflessly serve our country especially at this time of great need," he added.

Santos said the AFP answered the call to be at the bedside of the petients infected with the disease as the Ninoy Aquino Stadium was opened to serve as quarantine facility last Sunday.

"As the Ninoy Aquino Stadium opens as a quarantine and treatment facility for COvid-19 patients and Persons Under Investigation, military doctors, nurses, and aid men will render a 24/7 duty," he said

"I am aware of the many and varying difficulties we are experiencing like crosses we bear on our shoulders not only in this time of Lent but also in the period of enhanced community quarantine. But in carrying faithfully our share in the load, the burden will be lighter and more bearable. This is the spirit of your AFP’s taking on this privilege to serve the nation," he added.

Santos also urge the public to do their part to help one another by praying, staying at home and observing personal hygiene.

"We need all the support from everybody— including prayers. Let us include our health workers and our less fortunate Kababayans in our daily devotions," he said.

"I enjoin everyone to give their humble but immensely helpful contribution to this fight: by staying at home, promoting personal hygiene, and observing physical distancing. If we necessarily have to leave home, obey regulations and never forget to wear masks. This is the time when being healthy physically is a patriotic duty just as being spiritually clean is a divine obligation," Santos said.

"To the troops, rest assured that AFP initiatives to protect our frontliners will continue. Your health will always be of utmost importance to the AFP leadership as we endeavor to preserve the fighting force to help the country win this battle," he added. Robina Asido/DMS