President Duterte saddened over doctors’ deaths; vows to deliver basic services during quarantine period
MANILA – A week after President Rodrigo Duterte called for enhance community quarantine in Metro Manila and the entire Luzon island, he addressed the nation late Tuesday night and expressed sadness over the deaths of medical frontliners over the past days.
“I am saddened by the news that the virus has claimed the lives of our doctors along the way. They are all heroes and I salute them, the doctors, nurses, medical technologists and other allied health professionals,” he said during the address on national television. Five medical doctors attending to their patients have died due to COVID-19 as of last night.
He also expressed appreciation to government workers with special mention of the military and police for maintaining peace and order in what he described as “trying times.”
President Duterte also took note of the efforts made by food shops, groceries, supermarkets, banks and drug stores as well as the private sector who have “foregone” profit to alleviate the suffering of the poor.
The chief executive mentioned the creation of a National Action Plan being crafted by the Departments of National Defense and Interior and Local Government to reinforce efforts by the Department of Health.
“To the Filipino people, rest assured that your entire government is working hand-in-hand to safeguard your health, safety and well-being in the face of the threat posed by COVID-19. We will address all th different issues brought about by this pandemic as well as ensure the protection of our people, especially those who are serving in the frontlines,” he said.
He vowed to make available food, water and other essentials along with financial assistance to the vulnerable groups.
“We will do everything. We will not forsake you,” he further said.
He, however, called on the citizenry to do their share by cooperating with the government, to strictly follow the guidelines set by the national government and local officials because “nothing is more important [now] than your cooperation.”
“I repeat: Stay home! Don’t be hardheaded because the outcome of this war (against COVID-19) depends largely on you as well,” he explained.
He expressed his gratitude to the members of the country’s legislature for passing the bill granting him special powers to address the encompassing threats brought about by COVID-19.
As of last night, the Department of Health has listed 552 COVID-19 positive cases with 35 deaths while 20 others have recovered. (Melo M. Acuña)
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte (Screen grab from RTVM/PCOO)
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