Army visits troops in checkpoints

March 19, 2020

Philippine Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay visited his frontline troops deployed in different checkpoints in Metro Manila on Wednesday.

Col. Ramon Zagala, Philippine Army spokesman, said Gapay personally checked the troops deployed at the checkpoints located in at MacArthur Highway, Valenzuela, NLEX Bocaue, and Mindanao Avenue, Quezon City.

Zagala said during his visit "Gapay reiterated the importance of the troops’ role in containing the virus and how their wellbeing affects the mission."

He said Gapay gave moral support to the troops and encouraged them keep their body, mind, and soul in top shape in order to protect the people from the threat of COVID-19 in the duration of the enhanced community quarantine. 

Zagala said Gapay also distributed Personal Protective Equipment for troops inspecting people passing through  checkpoints.

“As we continue doing our best to ward of an unseen enemy, we will not forget to support those who protect us from the frontlines," Gapay said. 

"We are grateful for your service, and you have our prayers and support as we undergo the enhanced community quarantine,” he added.

Zagala also mentioned that "since the implementation of the community quarantine in NCR, the Army has distributed food packs to the health workers from the hospitals in Metro Manila and frontline troops in partnership with Landers."

"Troops were also deployed to man the checkpoint in the borders of NCR and as the enhanced community quarantine took effect, the Army has provided free rides for health professionals, food industry personnel, and workers from the basic services" he said.  Robina Asido/DMS