In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Sanya Lopez can’t help but worry about her hometown Malolos, Bulacan. And that’s why she is happy with each positive news about the province, including the one that San Miguel Corporation will soon build — a world-class airport in Bulakan, Bulacan.
“I feel proud because taga-Bulacan ako and we’re going to have an airport here,” Sanya says.
Sanya knows that the airport will provide hope for his provincemates who have lost their jobs and whose businesses were affected by the pandemic. She learned that the New Manila International Airport can accommodate 100 million passengers every year, has four runways with a provision for two more, and a seamless transport system. Over a million direct and indirect jobs will be created, new businesses will develop, and the tourism industry will get a shot in the arm.
“San Miguel is doing a big favor for the people of Bulacan. It will not only generate jobs for my kababayan it will also help generate more businesses and attract more tourists,” she says.
She’s asking Filipinos, particularly her provincemates, not to lose hope and keep following health protocols to avoid contracting the dreaded illness.
“I’m encouraging everyone to stay safe and to take care of themselves. Follow safety protocols. Wear mask and face shields. Let’s wash our hands regularly. And practice social distancing. Tatlo lang naman yon na ating tatandaan para makaiwas tayo sa COVID. And let’s not lose hope. Let’s learn how to cope. Hindi naman tayo bibigyan ng problema na hindi natin kaya,” she states.
“Likas naman sa ating mga Bulakenyo ang pagiging matulungin kaya magtulungan tayo ang keep the Bayanihan spirit within us. Darating ang panahon at malalagpasan din natin ito sa awa ng Diyos,” she adds.
Sanya said she is growing accustomed to the new normal.
“I still don’t leave the house puro work from home lang ang ginagawa ko na binibigay sa akin ng GMA and endorsements. If I may count it mga three times lang akong nakalabas, yung nagtaping ako for Wish Ko Lang and isa pang show,” she carries on.
And due to limited movements to prevent the prevent spread of COVID-19, Sanya has to forego travel plans for now.
“It’s sad because it’s really my dream to tour around and visit different places,” the actress shares noting Japan, Boracay, and Canada among the best places she’s been to so far.
“I enjoyed Japan because of its food. Favorite ko rin kasi ang ramen lalo na sa kanila is authentic talaga. I had a great bonding time with my brother (Jak Roberto) and Barbie (Forteza) dahil kasama ko sila noon.”
“I like my stay in Boracay because it was the first time that I was able to take a vacation after three years of working straight without any time to unwind. After Encantadia ay nabigyan agad ako ng project ng GMA kaya medyo hindi ako nakapag-bakasyon. Nagandahan naman ako sa Canada although it was just a short visit. I also admire their being so disciplined,” she relates.
Sanya is optimistic that once the pandemic has passed, everything will be back to normal and will be better for her hometown and the country.
“This, too, shall pass and scything will go back to normal. Mabibisita ko pa rin yung mga lugar na di ko pa napupuntahan,” Sanya assures.
And who knows, one of her upcoming flights could be at the world-class airport in Bulacan.