The response of the Philippine government on COVID 19 Pandemic

The coronavirus pandemic has created uncertainty and suffering in our world. Our compassion
goes out to those who suffer directly from the COVID-19 respiratory disease, those who put
themselves at risk every day to serve others, and those who have lost loved ones and livelihoods.
In addition to the tragedy of this experience, we recognize the tragedy that a disease such as the
coronavirus has long been predicted. Many of the most devastating diseases from the past few
decades, such as Ebola, bird flu, and SARS, have come from animals, just as this coronavirus
did. In fact, 75% of emerging infectious diseases come from the animal world. The coronavirus
that is now sweeping the world first arose from bats.

See

Risk and consequences

As with other crisis, the consequences of the coronavirus will be felt both locally and globally, in
both the short term and the long term. In places where the outbreak has been particularly severe,
families now care for and grieve over their loved ones. Mandatory quarantines and curfews have
brought entire economies to a standstill and led to the loss of work. In some places, the pandemic
has exposed dysfunctional governments; in others, it has provided a pretext for corruption; in
still others, it has led to a rise of authoritarian rule. In the long term, there is great uncertainty
about economic recovery and the stability of social institutions. The risk of harm from the
coronavirus is greatest to the most vulnerable.

Pause for reflection

1. What are some causes of this crisis?

2. What are some of its consequences?
3. What are the specific ways that more vulnerable people may be harmed during this
pandemic? What are some of the gifts that more vulnerable people offer?
4. What are the specific ways that communities have come together to demonstrate love for
their neighbors during this time?
5. What are some similarities between the coronavirus pandemic and our ecological
catastrophe?

Judge
Understanding the coronavirus pandemic is the first stage in responding to it. Next, we are called
to discern God‘s call in our lives.

Pause for reflection

After reading, spend a few moments in quiet prayer. Then reflect on these questions.

1. What is God’s vision of justice?

2. What is God telling me about the most vulnerable of my neighbors?
3. How will responding to this crisis prepare me for long-lasting engagement in the project
of protecting God’s creation?
Act
Pray
Pray for the well-being of those who suffer now and for those who face great uncertainties in the
future.

Social Teachings being violated

This is not to say that these principles have not been violated, but that at this unique moment, it
seems that these principles are alive and well in the hearts and minds of women and men across
our communities.

When it comes to respecting the basic fact that each person is created in the image and likeness
of God (“human dignity”), we are seeing a unique respect for the life of each and every person.
There is a recognition that life is precious and to be preserved from diseases that can be
combatted.

There has also been a unique “unity arising from love of one’s neighbor” (“solidarity”). You are
seeing a special concern for those who are most vulnerable among us, such as the poor, elderly,
and those with pre-existing health conditions. As well, there is a sense that we must act together
in this effort if we are to do things like “flatten the curve.”