Vice President Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo thanked the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for its efforts in helping the government’s response to the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.

Robredo made this remark during her meeting with AFP chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay and other ranking military officials at the General Headquarters (GHQ) Building, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Tuesday.

The Vice President was received by the AFP chief in the customary arrival honors held at the GHQ Canopy Area.

“She commended the AFP in its efforts to fight the pandemic and noted how the organization has cared for its personnel which allowed it to continue in supporting government efforts,” AFP public affairs office chief Navy Capt. Jonathan Zata said in a statement.

At present, 35 percent of the AFP’s manpower is deployed to aid the government’s Covid-19 containment efforts.

Robredo thanked the military for its support to many projects of her office.

This includes the Oasis Project wherein military engineers assist in the construction of temporary shelters to provide sleeping accommodations to medical front-liners against the Covid-19 pandemic.

Zata said the AFP is also supportive of the Office of the Vice President’s livelihood programs for less fortunate youths in far-flung areas and barangays.

The Vice President emphasized the importance of good governance and education for them to have a better future, and contribute to de-radicalize youths, especially in Mindanao.

Robredo also noted the AFP’s efforts to protect and preserve the country’s maritime interests in the West Philippine Sea.

She also highlighted the contributions and sacrifices of the soldiers’ families in keeping the home front while their loved ones are called to serve in faraway assignments.

Robredo also lauded soldiers who underwent rigid training to become public servants and assured her office’s continued support to the whole AFP organization.

She also cited the contribution of female soldiers especially the lady generals who currently hold key positions in the organization.

“The AFP is honored to have Vice President Leni Robredo who took time out of her busy schedule to visit the military’s general headquarters and convey her message of support to our entire endeavor. As the mandated protectors of the people and state, the AFP will continue to support the Office of the Vice President as well as all humanitarian assistance programs anchored on maintaining peace and development in the country,” Gapay said. (PNA)