As the country starts the second week of Luzon-wide community quarantine, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte lauded the contributions of the country’s frontliners against the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), assuring them of government support to emerge victorious.

“First, let me reiterate my sincerest gratitude to all our courageous frontliners in this war, especially our healthcare workers—our doctors, nurses, medical technologists, and other allied health professionals,” President Duterte said Tuesday in his message to the nation.

“Maraming, maraming salamat. Asahan n’yo ang suporta ng inyong gobyerno.”

The President said he was saddened by the news that the virus has claimed the lives of doctors taking care of the sick, describing them as heroes that deserve recognition.

“Lahat po sila ay bayani and not only that, talagang bumilib ako. Bihira akong sumasaludo ng tao pero ‘pag mga doktor natin, mga health workers na nadisgrasya, talagang saludo ako sa inyo.”

He also recognized the efforts made by the officials and staff of the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging and Infectious Diseases (IATF) for effectively managing the emergency situation.

The uniformed personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) also received praises from the commander-in-chief for ensuring peace and order in the country as the government strives to halt the virus.

President Duterte also thanked other frontliners that include various government agencies, groceries, banks, food establishments, and delivery services who ensure that basic services are provided to the people.

The members of the private sector were also given recognition for foregoing profit to alleviate the suffering of the people. Volunteers, who supplemented frontline agencies in battling the disease, were also recognized.

Civil society organizations, working tirelessly to call for donations and to perform charity work, must also be praised for their kindness, compassion and generosity, according to the President. PND