Año urge Filipinos to pray for those infected by COVID-19

April 10, 2020

Interior Secretary Eduardo Año on Friday urged Filipinos to reflect and pray for those who are infected by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) as the country observes the Holy Week.

In a statement, Año said the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) joins the entire Christian community in the commemoration of the life, sacrifices and holiness of Jesus Christ in this Lenten Season amid the COVID-19 public health emergency.

“This year’s Lenten Season is cast in a different light. Today, we are compelled to observe our religious practices virtually and be content to pray within the confines of our home as a measure to contain the virus,” he said.

“Let this Lenten Season be a time for us to reflect on how we can all be part of the solution and what we can do, in our own little ways, to help the frontliners and the government alleviate the plight of those who are most affected by COVID-19,” he added.

Año said may this season be a time for gratitude as we seek God’s special protection and guidance for our frontline workers who are risking their safety, health and their very lives to tend to the sick, maintain law, and ensure that food reaches our communities.

“Let us also pray for our national and local government officials, especially our punong barangays, that they may address this crisis with urgency, wisdom, and compassion in the service of the people,” he said.

“And most importantly, let us pray for our countrymen who are afflicted with COVID-19. Let us pray that they will conquer this challenge and for them to full recover,” he added.

In this Lenten Season and amid this ordeal, he said Filipinos will rise the distinct faith, the indomitable devotion of a nation that has weathered countless disasters with vigilance and prayer as their weapon.

“We are an Easter people.  Let us continue to have faith that this too shall pass as we look forward to a new beginning with renewed dedication, love, and commitment for our country and our people,” Año said. Ella Dionisio/DMS