NTF lauds work of frontline workers vs COVID-19

August 31, 2020

As the nation commemorates the National Heroes Day, the National Task Force (NTF) against the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) honors the sacrifices of  frontline workers who are modern day heroes.

"For the past six months, our doctors, nurses, military and police personnel and civil servants have been at the forefront of our nation’s battle against the deadly disease. We know how your jobs have taken a heavy toll on your physical and mental well-being," the task force said in a statement issued on Monday.

"But despite the many challenges, you continue to put your lives on the line and carry out your critical tasks so that our countrymen can get the best medical care and other essential services they need to recover and return to their families," it stated.

"The selflessness, dedication and bravery you have shown during this health crisis puts you in the same league as our national heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in order to free our nation from foreign oppressors," it added.

Despite the ongoing  pandemic, the NTF which is chaired by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana expressed confidence that the Filipinos will be able to win the "war" against the deadly virus.

"Today, we are fighting a different kind of war that will determine the future of our nation. But we have no doubt that we can win this battle because you, our frontliners, stand ready to serve and protect our country," the NTF said.

"We will forever be indebted to all of you. May this occasion be our way of showing our heartfelt gratitude, recognition and support for all the things you have done for our beloved nation and the Filipino people", it stated.

"You are all heroes in the truest sense of the word. We, your countrymen, will make sure that your contributions will be appreciated, remembered and honored," it added.

"Finally, we would like to call on all Filipinos to unite and work shoulder to shoulder so that we can surmount this crisis, and move forward as one nation," the task force said.

Aside from Lorenzana, the statement of the task force was also signed by Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año, as the NTF vice-chair, Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr., as the chief implementer of the Philippines' Declared National Policy Against COVID-19 and Bases and Conversion Development Authority President and CEO Vivencio  Dizon, the deputy chief implementer of the Philippines' Declared National Policy Against COVID-19. Robina Asido/DMS