Returning Filipino peacekeepers from Liberia to stay in 'paradise island' during quarantine

MANILA, Philippines - Filipino peacekeepers deployed in Ebola-stricken Liberia will soon experience why it’s more fun in the Philippines upon their return.

The 112 members of the Philippine contingent will be enjoying the beach while on a three week-quarantine in a “paradise island” in Luzon.

While enjoying the view of the still undisclosed island, the soldiers can go fishing and nature tripping. If they choose to stay indoors, the peacekeepers can surf the Internet or watch their favorite cable channel.

Armed Forces public affairs chief Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc said these rewards await the soldiers who will return to the country on November 11.

“They will enjoy their stay in that island,” Cabunoc told reporters in Camp Aguinaldo on Wednesday.

“We will provide everything. They will have an Internet facility. They will have cable TV. They can enjoy the beach. They can go fishing,” he added.

Cabunoc said the quarantine, which looks more like a rest and recreation, is a reward for the “heroes who risked their lives to maintain peace in Liberia.”

“They risked their lives. They were at risk of being shot or stabbed by conflicting groups. They were sent there to keep the peace, risking their lives and limbs,” Cabunoc said.

“When they return, let’s reward them. We will follow the quarantine procedures while making our soldiers happy,” he added.

Cabunoc said measures are being done to ensure the safety of residents in the island. He also urged the public not to be afraid of the peacekeepers, noting that they are not considered “high-risk personnel.”

“The high-risk personnel include health personnel or doctors treating Ebola patients, people who bathe those who died of Ebola and those who kiss patients. They (peacekeepers) are not part of the category,” he said.

The military originally planned to quarantine the peacekeepers at the Armed Forces Peacekeeping Operations Center in Capas, Tarlac. The plan was dropped amid protests by local officials who are worried about its effect on the town’s health and tourism.

The Philippines pulled out its peacekeepers in Liberia because of the outbreak of the Ebola virus, which has killed about 4,900 persons.