Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 24) — Millions of Filipinos are stuck at home under a lockdown as authorities try to stop COVID-19 from spreading faster.
Sixteen-year-old Marcus Chu is one of them. But he’s not just killing time playing video games or watching Netflix.
The Grade 10 student is using a 3D printer to make frames that will serve as face shields for medical frontliners.
Once the frame is printed, an acetate is attached to make a reusable face shield.
“I share sympathy with the doctors that are in the frontline because I’ve seen posts online about how they’re struggling,” Chu told CNN Philippines over the phone.
A total of 501 Filipinos have been infected with the dreaded virus as of Tuesday, and hospitals are overwhelmed.
Chu said he would rather help in his own little way than do nothing at home.
Luckily, he got the 3D printer as a gift from his parents last Christmas. He said he is thankful it gave him an opportunity to do something to make a difference.
Chu said he plans to make at least a hundred pieces, or until his raw materials last.
“It takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes to print one frame,” he explained.
He has finished over 20 pieces so far which have been sent to a hospital in Quezon City.
His dad, Gifford, said Marcus had a light-bulb moment when he saw a Facebook post about health workers needing protective gear.
“I’m happy that my son is trying to help in his own little way,” Gifford Chu said. “I hope all our frontliners will be safe.”
LOOK: 16-year old Marcus Chu uses his personal 3D printer to make frames of face shields for health frontliners | @AC_Nicholls pic.twitter.com/qRssunXYrd
— CNN Philippines (@cnnphilippines) March 24, 2020
