Duterte thanks ‘selfless’ frontliners, private sector in COVID-19 pandemic fight

FILE PHOTO: In this December 21, 2020, photo, a man and his companion wear face masks resembling the Philippine flag in Divisoria, Manila, as Palace announced that wearing of face shields along with face masks when out in public is still mandatory. INQUIRER file photo / MARIANNE BERMUDEZ

MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte thanked medical and economic frontliners as well as the private sector for their noble service as the country continues its fight against the coronavirus pandemic.

In his final State of the Nation Address (SONA), Duterte addressed those who “selflessly gave their all” in fighting the pandemic.

“Be that as it may, allow me the opportunity to extend my personal and the nation’s gratitude to all those who selflessly gave their all in the fight against COVID-19—our health workers and other frontliners who risked their own safety to keep the health essential services on our food supply chain running, boosting the economic activity, and ensuring peace and order in our communities,” he said.

Duterte likewise expressed his “deepest appreciation” to the private sector “who came to the government’s aid in fighting COVID-19.”

“I am profoundly thankful for your sustained assistance to fellow Filipinos and amidst the same effects of the pandemic to our respective industries, let me assure you that the government is committed to assessing the private sector to regain the commercial vibrance of the country,” he added.