"We are, after all, living on borrowed time."
"We are, after all, living on borrowed time."
The year has finally come to an end. Perhaps this is the most awaited day by many. Year 2020 has undoubtedly been difficult. The island of Luzon, particularly Southern Luzon, was devastated by the eruption of the Taal Volcano at the start of the year. A few weeks later, the country recorded its first case of COVID-19, and the rest is history. Today, we face another threat as we approach a new year, a new strain of the dreaded COVID-19.
The year seemed to pass swiftly as we spent months in our own homes. The quarantine has left many in limbo for the first half of the year. Many went jobless, businesses closed, and classes were cancelled. The situation indeed brought out the worst. Yet, it also revealed the best.
The COVID-19 pandemic is a novel and unprecedented experience. No country, understandably, was able to prepare for its impact. Yet, perhaps we can say that the country has done better than the others. For one, national government agencies worked together to abate the economic and social impact of the pandemic. The social amelioration program is one of the major programs implemented by the government that significantly helped families survive the months-long lockdown. This was complemented by other programs under the Bayanihan to Heal as One and Bayanihan to Recover as One acts which were passed by Congress in time.
On the other hand, local government units immediately implemented extraordinary measures to ensure that local transmission of the COVID-19 would be prevented and managed. Travel restrictions were put in place. Hospitals were provided with supplies. The Provincial Government of Quezon continuously provided livelihood assistance to the locals in cooperation with the different national agencies. We also opened several quarantine facilities in the province. Quezon Province is among the first to establish its own testing center early on in the quarantine.
Until now, we continuously work to curb COVID-19 transmission and help people adjust to the “new normal.” Apart from that, we remain committed to ensuring that other public programs are available and implemented.
Now, as we approach a new year, I am hopeful that better days are coming. Let us take this opportunity to ponder the lessons of this year and nourish our faith. I personally believe that our faith in the Lord has been saving us from the worst. At this point, perhaps we should seek His forgiveness from all our mistakes and wrongdoings, and reflect on the things we need to change. After all, we are living on borrowed time. Let us make the most out of our lives and do good. Let us enter the new year with renewed hearts and stronger faith.
Have a safe and Happy New Year to all.