PASIG, Oct. 11 (PIA) - The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) formally inaugurated its own quarantine facility on Saturday at the Coast Guard Base in Taguig City.

Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade, together with PCG Commandant Admiral George Ursabia, led the inauguration of the quarantine facility for PCG frontline personnel who have contracted COVID-19 in the performance of their duties and responsibilities.

"Kung may problema, kung may nagkasakit. May matutuluyan at masasabing sariling atin. Sinasaluduhan ko kayo at natutuwa ako na may pasilidad na magagamit, hindi lamang para sa mga magkakasakit na personnel ng Coast Guard, kung hindi bukas para sa iba kung sakaling kailanganin. This is the humanity and Christianity, not only of Commandant Ursabia pero sa lahat ng Philippine Coast Guard," Secretary Tugade said.

Tugade added the quarantine facility is also ready to accommodate ordinary citizens when the need arises.

PCG chief Commandant Ursabia expressed his gratitude to the DOTr for its support.

"I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the overwhelming support from the Department of Transportation, especially to Secretary Arthur Tugade, who pushed for the realization of this global undertaking. Thank you for being such a good father to the PCG. In closing, I challenge everyone to remain steadfast in facing uncertainties in the new normal. I firmly believe that with God, we will not fail because we are not alone in this fight. Let prayers be our weapon against the unseen enemy," Commandant Ursabia said.

Ursabia dedicated the newly-constructed quarantine facility to their frontliners that until now are able to perform their duties beyond expectations, especially in this challenging time.

According to the coast guard, the Php 35-million quarantine facility can accommodate up to 224 personnel, is made of good quality container vans, and is equipped with sewerage, electrical, and air conditioning systems. It also has a modest leisure area. Inside also is a medical station with sufficient storage for PPE sets, medical supplies, and medicines, as well as a 26-bed capacity accommodation for PCG nurses and health workers.

As PCG continues to fulfill its duty to protect the Filipino people, it also ensures the health and safety of its frontline personnel through the conduct of bi-monthly swab tests; replenishment of vitamins, provision of PPE sets, and other medical supplies, among others. Commandant Ursabia also announced that the PCG remains zero mortality rate in its personnel. (PCG/PIA-NCR)