The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has turned over the regional isolation facility to the Regional Task Force (RTF) that will accommodate coronavirus disease (Covid-19) patients from La Union and other provinces in the Ilocos Region.

In a statement posted on Facebook on Thursday, the DPWH Ilocos regional office said the facility located at its compound in Barangay Acao here has 50 cubicles and a nurse station.

“The RTF and provincial government of La Union will be responsible for the full operation and management of the facility. Initially, the provincial government of La Union will provide necessary equipment and services such as furniture and fixtures, sleeping kits, communication materials, food, logistical requirements, laundry, janitorial, and other significant services to accommodate the needs of Covid-19 patients. A swab booth is also installed in the facility,” it said.

It added eight nurses and two utility personnel will manage the facility, and a physician from the Department of Health Center for Health Development Region 1 will attend to the needs of the patients on a scheduled basis.

“RTF had requested eight Philippine National Police personnel and a Bureau of Fire Protection decontamination (BFP Decon) team to be on 24-hour shift duty,” DPWH-1 said.

It is an existing DPWH building which was converted into an isolation facility for Covid-19 patients, while it can also be used by different regional line agencies.

The facility was turned over on Sept.16. (PNA)