The DPWH has begun preparations for the transformation of the Philippine Arena complex into a quarantine facility which can initially cater to about 440 coronavirus disease patients with mild or no symptoms. Contributed photo
BOCAUE, Bulacan— The transformation of the Philippine Arena complex here into a quarantine facility which initially can cater to about 440 coronavirus disease patients with mild or no symptoms is now being undertaken by the Department of Public Works and Highways.
The DPWH Task Force on Augmentation of Healthcare Facilities headed by Undersecretary Emil Sadain visited the complex on Monday to inspect the three mega tents offered by the Iglesia Ni Cristo arm Maligaya Development Corp.
Secretary Mark Villar said based on the assessment by the task force, the existing steel frame and other partition materials in the mega tents have to be modified to ensure that they comply with Department of Health standards for health facilities.
“With current power for lighting and air-conditioning supplied by generator set, fixed electrical power with transformer of about 500 kva capacity and augmented water supply are needed in every mega tent,” Villar said.
DPWH Region 3 will be tapped to extend personnel assistance in the modification works of the quarantine facility at the Philippine Arena complex in the soonest time possible.
“The support of private contractors and other partners similar to that provided at PICC, World Trade Center and Rizal Memorial Coliseum would consequently speed up the development of facility at the Philippine Arena to meet the needs for urgent health care,” Villar added.
The DPWH task force and DPWH Region 3 are now preparing the design plan for all development activities at the site and will refer to hospital design specialist Architect Dan Lichauco for comments and approval.
Meanwhile, the INC is also offering its Garden Suites, also part of the Ciudad de Victoria estate in Bulacan, as separate housing facilities for assigned health workers.
Under Republic Act 11469 otherwise known as Bayanihan to Heal as One Act, the DPWH has been tasked to assist the DOH in the establishment, construction and operation of temporary medical facilities.
