Most Filipinos remain hopeful amid the coronavirus pandemic

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines may have already breached the 50,000 mark in the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases, but Filipinos’ general disposition remain hopeful, even if they are holed up in their homes for almost four months due to the quarantine imposed by government to address the coronavirus pandemic.

In a study released by an insurance company during a recent virtual press conference, about 68 percent of Filipinos say they remain hopeful amidst concerns related to the health emergency.

The study suggested that while 63 percent of respondents admitted to being concerned, 47 percent of them said they remain optimistic.

The most pressing concern among Filipinos are their families’ health, and the economy’s, both at 71 percent.

And with the ongoing debates regarding the opening of classes, and through what mode of learning will be used, 69 percent cited concerns for their children’s education.

“This could be two-fold. It could be related to the new learning method, and how their children will adjust to it. Another would be funding for their tuition,” Sun Life Philippines Chief Marketing and Client Officer Mylene Lopa said.

The respondents’ ability to save for the future, their understanding of the pandemic’s long-term impact to their finances, and providing support for the elderly family members also registered highly among the Filipinos’ concerns, at 63, 62, and 61 percent, respectively.

Lopa noted that the respondents’ concern for the elderly may likewise be two-fold. “It could be financial, or the care that is needed,” she explained.

Almost half (48 percent) of the respondents said their financial situation took the hardest hit from the pandemic.

“This is an eye-opener for us. The most impacted was their financial situation. So the need for financial security is heightened even more,” Lopa shared.

However, 44 percent said the pandemic has taken its heaviest toll on their ability to socialize with friends, while 31 percent cited not getting enough physical activity.

But Filipinos have not totally ignored any form of preparations for certain emergencies.

Almost half (49 percent) said they are “somewhat ready,” while 13 percent said they are “very prepared.”

About 68 percent now said they see the need to save more and build a bigger emergency fund, while a majority (57 percent) hopes to have more savings and investments, and to seek more financial advice.

Learning new skills or sustaining a hobby, and living more sustainably and environment-friendly both posted 54 percent from the respondents.

About 53 percent also said they are seeking more health and wellness advice, and would invest in their families’ health.

Lopa said the study was conducted in May among 500 of their clients through a blended survey conducted by their regional office in Hong Kong online and over the phone.

“We ran a parallel survey among 200 respondents, and the results validated the study,” Lopa said.

As of Thursday, the Department of Health has reported 51,754 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the country, with 12,813 recoveries, and 1,314 deaths. There are currently 37,627 active cases in the Philippines, the DOH said.

EDV