Philippine presidential yacht to assist in COVID-19 response effort

The Philippine Navy has confirmed that the Philippine presidential yacht, BRP Ang Pangulo, will be utilised as a floating quarantine facility for COVID-19 patients.

In a statement released on Saturday, April 4, the navy’s Public Affairs Office said that, following the conversion work, the vessel will be capable of accommodating up to 28 patients plus medical staff in designated onboard berthing compartments separate from those used by the 81-strong all-navy crew.

Ang Pangulo is presently docked in the southern Philippine port of Davao to allow the loading of medical equipment that will enable the vessel to serve as a temporary quarantine facility.