The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will continue its task of assisting Filipinos badly affected by the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

“With guidance from the national government, through the IATF (Inter-Agency Task Force) and the National Task Force against Covid-19, we will strictly uphold new protocols that will be established in Metro Manila and other provinces (that) shift(ed) to general community quarantine,” AFP public affairs office chief, Navy Capt. Jonathan Zata, said in a message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA) on Wednesday when asked how the military would aid the government in implementing stricter general community quarantine (GCQ) in Metro Manila and the provinces of Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal.

Zata said the AFP understands the weight that is being carried by every Filipino in these trying times.

“Nevertheless, we trust that our people will do their part and cooperate in complying with health and safety protocols,” he added.

Zata said Covid-19 is an enemy that requires a different form of sacrifice, commitment, and dedication.

“As protectors of the people and the State, the AFP assures that shoulder to shoulder, we will overcome this pandemic and stand up better and more resilient,” he added. (PNA)