The United States is providing an additional PHP5.7 million worth of personal protective equipment (PPE) and medical supplies to local partners battling the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) in provinces across the Philippines, the US Embassy in Manila announced Tuesday.

The embassy said US military service members in Mindanao and Luzon began the delivery of PPE on April 22, which included disposable gloves, goggles, face shields, disinfectant spray, and other items to support frontline workers.

“As long-standing allies, we are proud to support the Philippine first responders and medical professionals who are on the frontlines battling Covid-19 with this PPE donation,” said US Army Staff Sgt. Christopher Duede, Civil-Military Support Element – Philippines.

“This donation is part of our continued commitment to supporting the Philippines Covid-19 response. It is an honor to be able to work with such great partners and provide assistance in any way that we can,” he added.

According to the embassy, the donations will be distributed to medical clinics, hospitals, rural health units, and municipal health offices in Cagayan, the National Capital Region, Palawan, Zambales, Sarangani, and Zamboanga City in coordination with the Office of Civil Defense, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Philippine National Police – Special Action Force, and the US Agency for International Development.

PCG Commandant, Admiral George Ursabia extended the country’s appreciation for the donations.

“It’s the genuine concern shown through consistent efforts that matters to us Filipinos. Your generosity to equip our front liners since the start of pandemic transcends service to humanity and we are far beyond grateful,” he said.

To date, the US government has provided nearly PHP1.3 billion (approximately USD27 million) to support the Philippines’ pandemic response. (PNA)