CITY OF SAN FERNANDO — Former President Gloria Macapagal–Arroyo said the successful rollout of Covid-19 vaccines is key to the nation’s economic recovery.
“Experts say that for this year, the Philippines will be among the countries which will recover fast from recession. The vaccines are important so that people will not be afraid to go out or spend their money,” she said at Monday’s symbolic vaccination at Jose B.Lingad Memorial General Hospital here.
“If we want to achieve what the experts say, we need the vaccine rollout,” Arroyo stressed, citing the fear of the people to go out amid the pandemic that has adversely affected various industries in the country.
“This health crisis is the Second World War of our generation, but all of us are on the same side. We are fighting against a common enemy and that is Covid-19. The unity of the whole world will be the key to our recovery,” she said.
Her attendance in the event, she noted, displays how the country’s leaders play a role in significant events such as the vaccination.
In addition, the former President lauded the response of local and national officials in curbing the Covid-19 cases in the country.
“The Philippines is number 13 when it comes topopulation, but it is only 30th in terms of Covid-19 cases. This only means that our pandemic response is good, and it will get better with the vaccine rollout. The reason for low cases is because we are disciplined when it comes to adhering to minimum health protocols. All of us are wearing face masks and face shields, we regularly wash our hands and observe physical distancing,” she stated.
Arroyo expressed her gratitude to the Department of Health for aiding the healthcare workers, and congratulated the healthcare workers for being the first to be vaccinated. — Jag Lyra D. Costamero/PIA–3
