Health Secretary Francisco T. Duque III, along with National Action Plan Against COVID-19 Chief Implementer Secretary Carlito Galvez and Deputy Chief Implementer Secretary Vince Dizon, led the inspection of the mega quarantine facility in Calamba, Laguna today

Also present during the event were Director Eric Ayapana from the Bureau of Construction, Department of Public Works and Highways, Laguna Governor Ramil Hernandez, and Calamba City Mayor Timmy Chipeco.

The group inspected the CALABARZON Regional Government Center which is currently being transformed into a COVID-19 quarantine facility with 553 cubicles, nurse stations, quarters for healthcare workers, with toilet and shower rooms for patients. The facility is expected to begin operations by early September.

“The construction of this 553-bed quarantine facility will be a big boost to the government’s effort in containing the COVID-19 pandemic. As we ramp up our testing capacity, we are also increasing our bed capacity for isolation and quarantine. These two should go hand in hand,” Duque explained.

“We assure the public that your national government will continue supporting our local government for an improved local response against COVID-19. Bawat isa sa atin ay may maiaambag sa labang ito. Hindi ito laban ng gobyerno o ng mga healthcare workers lang. Ito ay laban mo at laban ko. Ito ay laban nating lahat,” Duque emphasized.

The Health Chief also reminded the public that we can all BIDA Solusyon and prevent the further transmission of the virus by strictly observing physical distancing, wearing face masks and face shields, and frequent handwashing.