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MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has deployed 115 soldiers to Liberia, one of 3 West African countries suffering from an Ebola outbreak, as United Nations (UN) peacekeepers.
Military spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Ramon Zagala assured the families of the soldiers that precautionary measures have been put in place to protect the safety of the troops. He said the military headquarters in Manila is closely monitoring the situation.
“We’d like to assure them that all health and safety precautions are being done and led by the UN to ensure they are safe and their health will not be compromised,” Zagala said.
The troops were ordered to restrict their movements to their offices and barracks.
“There was a health advisory given to the troops deployed there. This health advisory details measures to be followed to all personnel stationed in affected areas such as Liberia,” Zagala told reporters on Friday, August 1.
“All non-essential movements are restricted. All offices remain open but personnel should limit their movements from their accommodations to their offices,” he added.
This means meetings with local communites are suspended. “Unless determined relevant to the chain of command, all off duty movements are to be ceased,” said Zagala.
The Philippine contingent is led by Colonel Glicerio Peralta.
Troops are usually rotated every 10 months. Another rotation is scheduled in September or October.
“Our commitment to the UN mission in pursuit of global stability and security has not changed. Despite the emergence of the Ebola [outbreak], we will continue. Despite the danger, we will continue our commitment to the UN, of course with safety and precaution,” said Zagala.
One Filipino soldier died in Libera last year because of malaria.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines is also sending peacekeepers to Golan Heights, Haiti, Afghanistan, Cote d’ Ivoire, Darfur, Kashmir, Sudan, and Timor-Leste. (READ: How Pinoy soldiers befriended their Syrian soldiers and PH’s first woman peacekeeping commander off to Haiti) – Carmela Fonbuena/Rappler.com
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