Villar completes PICC conversion into COVID-19 treatment facility

PICC converted by Villar group into a temporary COVID-19 facility

The group of real estate tycoon Manny Villar has completed the conversion of the state-owned Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) into a temporary quarantine facility for COVID-19 patients.

The PICC quarantine facility – which has 294 patient cubicles, six nurse stations, and six houses outside the Forum building for the health workers – was turned over to the Philippine National Police (PNP) Medical Corps on April 15.

“We are one with the Philippines in its fight against the widespread of COVID-19. Hence, we are delighted to have been able to convert PICC Forum halls to a makeshift hospital and is now ready for use ahead of schedule as this will greatly provide the optimal isolation space needed amid this pandemic,” Villar, founder and chair of the Villar group of companies, said in a press statement on Friday.

The Villar group, together with the Department of Public Works and Highways and Yuchengco-led construction firm EEI Corp., finished the job three days ahead of schedule.

The fully-airconditioned health facility at PICC complex will serve patients with mild to moderate cases of COVID-19 and will be managed by the PNP Medical Corps.