Thanking Today’s Masked Heroes

Doctors, alongside other medical front-liners, may have sighed relief at the start of the vaccine rollout. But before many could even have their second dose, March 2021 feels like 2020 all over again — only worse. March marks the beginning of the Philippines’ fight against the virus. It’s also the month the world celebrated Doctors Day for the first time in history.

The country’s new COVID-19 infections have reached record-high numbers for three straight days, outpacing the vaccine rollout efforts. Though more healthcare workers are getting their shots, the battle is far from over as they grapple with the second wave.

The national health bureau attributed the surge to the more contagious variants detected since January. Lax restrictions and complacent behaviors were also observed in the same period. With these, more numbers are expected to rise and more critical patients will have to wait for available beds, oxygen tanks, and ventilators outside medical facilities.

Appreciating doctors on their special day can go a long way. Gestures like giving thanks on social media or sending them cards and food can brighten up a rather gloomy shift. But what matters more to them now is putting off unessential trips, following protocols, and cooperating with authorities. Our administrators continue to track local vaccine updates so eligible staff can get their shots once available. Majority of our employees are still working from home and we’re not going back to the office anytime soon either. People working on-site are kept at a minimum and are frequently reminded to follow the guidelines.

Working with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals compels us to keep everybody in the company safe. Compliance and cooperation help save lives in times like this and so we strive to uphold a culture of social responsibility. Not because we think we have to but because we need to.