President Rodrigo Roa Duterte once again expressed his gratitude to the country’s frontliners against coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) as the nation enters the third week of Luzon-wide community quarantine.

“As always, I give my sincerest gratitude to all those who are fighting in the frontlines: Our doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, police, soldiers, civil servants and everyone performing essential services in the private sector,” President Duterte told the frontliners in his address to the nation Monday.

“I assure you that your efforts will be rewarded. Your heroism will not be forgotten. Saludo kami sa inyo.”

The President also thanked local government units (LGUs) for doing their best in containing the spread of the virus in their respective jurisdictions. He commended them for employing innovative initiatives to address the needs of their constituents.

“Rest assured that the national government is behind you as we safeguard the welfare of our people in your communities,” he said, as he highlighted the importance of cooperation during times of emergencies.

Last week, the President signed into law a measure granting him special powers to fight the emergency health crisis in the country due to the spread of COVID-19.

Under the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act, both public and health workers who may contract the virus while serving in the line of duty will get a compensation of P100,000.

Health workers who will die in the fight to contain COVID-19 will receive a P1 million compensation.

Households are also entitled to get an emergency subsidy under the newly signed law.

The government has implemented Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine, which takes effect until midnight of April 13. PND