CBCP: Medical workers new heroes

MANILA, Philippines — The battle against the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) highlighted the heroism of the country’s medical frontliners, an official of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) said yesterday.

In celebration of National Heroes’ Day today, Bataan Bishop Ruperto Santos, vice chairman of the CBCP-Episcopal Commission on the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People (ECMI) said while overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) have been regarded as the country’s modern-day heroes because of their remittances that contribute to the economy, the sacrifices and risks of those in the medical profession to care for COVID-19 patients cannot be discounted.

“Through the years we have seen the sacrifices and services of our OFWs for the betterment of their families; their financial contributions to maintain our fragile economy. Much more what is good and beneficial here, they introduce there in their places of work,” Santos said.

However, the more than five-month long pandemic highlighted the selfless dedication of those working in medical facilities, as they put their lives on the line whenever they treat patients infected with the virus.

“With this COVID-19 pandemic, we have new heroes, those in the medical professions. They are faithful, selfless in service and always ready to help and heal. They put their own safety at risk just to serve and save lives,” the prelate added.

Department of Health (DOH) data showed that as of Aug. 28, a total of 6,853 healthcare workers are positive for COVID-19. Of the number, 6,118 have recovered, 40 have died and 695 are active cases.

“Medical frontliners are modern day heroes whom we have to appreciate and be grateful for. They are heroes who are silent, not resorting to publicity; sincere, and are not corrupt,” Santos said.