‘A lot remains to be done,’ says Sotto after yearlong lockdown

MANILA, Philippines — While recognizing the government’s efforts to address the pandemic, Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III said there is still a lot to be done amid the rising COVID-19 cases in the country.

“Our government has done what is necessary to respond to this national health emergency, but a lot remains to be done,” Sotto said in a statement on Monday.

In March last year, the government first placed many parts of the country under lockdown due to surging coronavirus cases.

A year into the pandemic, a surge in COVID-19 cases was reported with over 600,000 people getting infected, and the death toll rising to 12,829 people.

“Cases are again at an uptick. Our hospitals are again swamped with patients. Our medical heroes are again up on their feet 24 hours, 7 days, and the lines of sick people are still getting longer. Our situation has again become worrisome,” Sotto said.

“As we watch and listen to news reports of more of our kababayans getting sick, let us be mindful that going out would endanger the health of our families. Now more than ever in the past 12 months, it is safer to stay home and protect ourselves from catching the virus.”

The Senate leader also urged the public to get COVID-19 vaccines.

“When the vaccines are available for distribution, don’t pass on the opportunity, get vaccinated,” he said. “Let us be pro-active in addressing the pandemic. You need to protect yourselves. And of course, let us not forget the basics – wear face masks and shields when in public places, observe social distancing and personal hygiene.”

“Together we stand in the fight against Covid but if we fail, recovery will be an uphill climb. We will see through this health crisis if we stay disciplined, cooperative and continue to work hand in hand,” Sotto further said.

EDV