Robredo calls for letters for frontliners, inspiring stories amid COVID-19 pandemic

MANILA, Philippines — As frontliners grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, Vice President Leni Robredo called on Filipinos to send in letters and artworks dedicated to them, as well as share inspirational stories amid the global health crisis.

The initiatives to collect letters and stories are part of Robredo’s Istorya ng Pag-asa program to “recognize the important role of frontliners,” the Office of the Vice President (OVP) said Wednesday on a release.

The first initiative, called Sulat ng Pag-asa, encourages Filipinos – especially children – to send in letters and artworks expressing gratitude to frontliners and volunteers, or for patients fighting the disease.

Those who wish to participate may either scan or take a high-resolution photo of their letter or artwork, made on plain white paper, and send it to the Istorya ng Pag-asa team via email at [email protected] or via Viber, WhatsApp or Telegram at 0917 889 4250.

The letters and artworks will be printed by the OVP and will be sent to hospitals, partners, and volunteers along with other donations being distributed by the office.

“Aside from bringing cheer to frontliners, the project also hopes to provide an avenue for children to express themselves, which many of them may find difficult to do during stressful situations such as this,” the OVP said.

The second initiative, called Salamat sa Pag-asa, meanwhile calls on Filipinos to share inspirational stories amid the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ). These may feature frontliners or fellow citizens who have helped or are helping others.

Those who wish to share such stories may use the hashtag #SalamatSaPagasa when telling their stories online or send anecdotes to the Istorya ng Pag-asa team via email at [email protected] or via Viber, WhatsApp or Telegram at 0917 889 4250.

The said stories will be posted on Istorya ng Pag-asa’s Facebook page and may also be featured on the radio program “Biserbisyong Leni,” which airs every Sunday at DZXL RMN 558 Manila, its regional affiliates, and on Facebook Live.

Amid the ECQ, the OVP has been able to provide free shuttle service, partnered with manufacturing companies and women’s groups to provide personal protective equipment and opened 10 dorms for frontliners, among other things.