DONATION. Philippine Army Chief, Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana (left), awards a token of appreciation to Asian Development Bank (ADB) Office of Administrative Services principal director, Lakshmi Menon (right), in a turnover ceremony on Friday (Oct. 23, 2020). The two polymerase chain reaction machines donated by the ADB is expected to augment the army's Covid-19 testing capabilities. (Photo courtesy of the Army Chief Public Affairs Office)
MANILA – The Philippine Army (PA) on Friday officially received two polymerase chain reaction (PCR) machines donated by the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
PA commander, Lt. Gen. Cirilito E. Sobejana and ADB Office of Administrative Services principal director Lakshmi Menon led the deed-of-donation signing ceremony to officially turn over the PCR machines to the Army.
The donation will augment the PA's coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) testing capabilities.
“Today, we again see ADB’s commitment. This equipment will extend the capacity of the operations of the molecular laboratory, effectively ensuring a healthier force,” Sobejana said as he thanked the ADB for its donation.
Earlier this year, the PA and the ADB worked together in delivering PHP250 million worth of food packs to some 162,000 households affected by the enhanced community quarantine in Metro Manila and neighboring provinces.
“We express our appreciation on our continued collaboration for the recovery of the country from the pandemic and ensure its continued progress,” Menon said.
Sobejana, meanwhile, said the ADB's PCR donation would complement the army’s thrust to sustain gains on security, good governance, and troop welfare.
"Truly, we now do more to enhance the lives of our personnel, their dependents, and the people we serve. Indeed, it is better to walk together than to walk alone,” he said. (PNA)
