It Came

by: Erica Joice Jebulan

Hooyah! The cry that means we are ready to work. Today, as I wake up and thank God for
another day, never have I thought that I will be given an opportunity to fight. The global fight, the
COVID-19 pandemic. This is the story of a non-healthcare provider but we were also Frontliners. The
sun hasn’t risen yet but we are wide awake. I hurriedly equipped myself not just with the rifles and
relevant uniform but with hope and positive outlook that all of us can go home safe after this day.

We were deployed near a crowded and the most indemand establishment during this time
aside from healthcare areas - the grocery stores. I sat and felt the burning sun on my skin. I look around
and see the troop members making themselves comfortable in this open field. No shades or tent was
provided since the locals are not yet prepared for our arrival. We were given instruction by the Higher-
ups and the protocol was also made in public. I saw the urge and hurry of the people inside the store.
Their worried face and careful moves not to be in touch with anyone. Some show a face of disgust,
anguish and panic. We approach civilian as calm as possible to avoid misunderstanding and heated
arguments. But then, it was inevitable. A lot of complains was thrown at us because of uncoordinated
orders. Who can we blame? We were just following specific instructions. As hours goes by, we are
finally realizing the effect of this crisis to everyone. Employees, parents, childrens, commercial
establishments and government units are not yet prepared for this situation. Are we entrap in this spot?

The exhausted face of everyone resonates hope, looking forward for a quiet, winding-down,
ending part of this day. However, it is not a surprise when we were given a command to stay on the
area for several months. As we soothe our body to sleep, I pray for my family’s safety because I can’t
guarantee mine.

On our first three months on our assigned area, we were used to the environment and everyday
complains that we even come up with a format on how to respond. What explanation do you need just
to understand? Is it hard to obey? You were all thirsty for freedom. But did you ever give it a thought
whether who really holds the true freedom? Is it us and the healthcare providers roaming around and in
position everyday to prevent harm and save lives? Or is it you and your family trapped inside your
house, eating meals together, resting comfortably while being asked just to stay at home? Many lives
have been compromised. Doctors cannot see what they are fighting against. Economies dropped and
the poorest suffer. Can’t you think just for yourselves? Being at home is the biggest contribution you
could make. The local healthcare system is already on its knees. Every ambulance that passes by is a
warning and a reminder that you should be grateful you aren’t the one on that situation. The rising
number of cases everyday and whenever I saw the news that some frontliners have died - It is dreadful.

How lucky are you who sleep peacefully with your family at night while we are patroling to
secure and made sure everyone follow the curfew. While medical personnel are on graveyard shift to
save lives and attend the needs of those who were suffering from the virus. Why are you still whining
like being at home felt like in prison? Those who complain that they miss the night life as if their life’s
happiness depends on it. Those who miss gatherings and eating out griping on their social media
accounts asking for sympathy. Is it that hard to obey what the government is imposing or is it easier to
do the opposite? Is the sacrifice we are doing even worth it? Do you even appreciate our efforts? We
were also anxious by the enemy we cannot see. Everyday I ask myself, am I infected now? Is the effect
fatal? How would I know? Thinking of co-frontlines in the medical field who directly face this
invisible enemy, I ask myself, do they deserve the discrimination? The sickening look that you
reciprocate them. How they were avoided and rejected to some facilities jut because of where they
work from. Is it worth saving lives? Do we bring inconvenience everytime we reminded you when
you’re not following health protocols. Are we not providing you protection?

If your mental health is your problem, so are we. We were demoralized and drained by all the
thinking. Can I go back safe? Does being at home after this deployment is safer or am I risking the
health of my loved ones? This contagious virus that no one is prepared of. This sudden outburst we do
not foresee! We were also given an enormous pressure to serve and protect while staying safe all the
time. Do you per chance know the feeling of being disgusted of? We can’t complain. It is our job. A
job I am devoted to. To live or to die I am committed here. This pandemic crisis increases our
vulnerability but we can’t show it. I need to stay focus and combats on because I want to be home soon.
 The overwhelming feeling brought to us while providing life saving services were priceless.
We just want you to react in a supportive and enabling way. Social cohesion, sense of solidarity and
being able to cope will help. Stop whining because the true victims are laying in bed praying for
another day to live. I wish you’d know the sufferings of those who begged God to save them from
harm. You are not miserable jut because you are locked-up at home. Those canned goods and instant
noodles might fed you up. I wish you’d knew the situation of those in the poorest area. I somehow
believe that this crisis also create inequalities. The things you are complaining were blessings to others.

I muster all my courage everyday because like everyone of you, I want to see another sunrise.
I want to see and embrace my family. And as the quiet, winding-down, ending part of a day that we
were looking forward to came, I pray to God that this too shall pass. I will be home soon.