FEU converts gym into sleeping quarters for RITM staff

The Far Eastern University (FEU) has repurposed its gymnasium to serve as sleeping quarters for frontliners and staff of the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM).

On its website, FEU announced it has opened its gymnasium doors to provide a "convenient, hygienic, and comfortable area" for RITM personnel to "relax and recharge in" amid the fight against the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

It accommodates 50 beds, separated into male and female sections, and a 12-seater lounge area. Separate shower, toilet, and locker facilities for men and women are also provided.

“FEU Alabang is doing everything it can to support RITM, our neighbor within the Alabang community, by offering our gym to be a temporary living space for their frontliners. We have ensured that protocols are in place and have adhered to the guidelines set forth by the medical facility. We will continue to do our part as members of this community,” FEU Alabang Senior Executive Director Benson Tan was quoted as saying.

The university also plans to provide food provisions for the entire RITM workforce from May 1 to 7.

It also put in place strict protocols to keep the gym sanitary.

Before being allowed to enter the facility, each person is disinfected with a body misting spray and a footbath, thermal scanned for body temperature, and has to hand wash or hand sanitize.

Earlier, La Salle Green Hills (LSGH) also opened its doors to frontliners from The Medical City (TMC).

Several churches and convents in Metro Manila have also welcomed medical frontliners who are battling COVID-19.

As of Monday, the number of COVID-19 cases in the Philippines rose to 3,660 with 163 deaths and 73 recoveries.

—JCB, GMA News