Don’t let your guard down

It's been almost a year since the global pandemic and sadly it has not ended. I envy our friends who are living abroad who have been vaccinated already. Even some third world countries have already started their vaccination program. Everyone is getting frustrated on how our leaders have acted on this rising number of Covid-19 cases and don’t know what is taking our leaders so long to roll out the vacines. But life must go on. The face mask if our vaccine. We must continue extra careful because the deadly virus is just around the corner waiting for us to make a mistake. We have been trained already for almost a year since the strict quarantine period from March until today. We have to stay vigilant regarding health and safety protocols.

Lately, I observed that some people have taken a step back and relaxed on following the safety protocols by going to large gatherings, outings, drinking and eating out. Just make sure to avoid the 3 C’s:close contact, crowded space, circulation (establishments with poor air circulation). Active cases are rising fast. In Mandaue alone, active cases have increased more than 3000% since December 2020. Although doctors and hospitals are more prepared now, it's not a reason for us to let our guard down. Mayors from the cities of Cebu, Mandaue, Lapu-Lapu, and Talisay and the governor herself have been vocal on their stand that is “No to lockdown”. And I agree. For one, it will be bad for our economy. At this moment though, we must work as one and be responsible in our fight to survive this pandemic. Establishment owners and vendors alike should be responsible enough and take initiative in following protocols. We can't expect the LGUs to check every establishment because even their manpower are affected and short-handed because of the virus.

Dr. Shawn Espina pointed out that it will take a lot of behavioral modification to get through this resurgence. Lockdown may be effective but they are too costly. Dr. Clive Fermin is also against the lockdown but in the absence of the vaccine, he is for the for strict implementation and enforcement of Covid protocols such as wearing of masks and face shields properly, social distancing, avoid congregating in large groups, wash and sanitize hands often. Dr. Fermin added if you're a doctor, a health worker, a politician, a boss, a manager or any person with a certain amount of authority, set an example. Your actions, your words will greatly influence the behavior of a lot of people.

SIDELINE:Growing up, I hate writing essays. English is my least favorite subject. I don't even like reading books unless they're about the sports icons I look up to such as Michael Jordan, Manny Pacquiao, and Lance Armstrong. Never did I imagine that I would become a writer one day, in a newspaper at that. Thank you to my good friend and former classmate Johnvic Gullas for giving me the opportunity to share my passion in fitness and sports through this weekly column. My profound gratitude too to our beloved chairman Jose "Dodong" R. Gullas, Johnvic's father, for making me part of The Freeman family. Sadly, sir Dodong passed away last Thurdsay evening after a short battle with cancer of the pancreas. He was 87. Sir Dodong may have left us but his legacy lives on... Rest in Peace, Sir Dodong Gullas.