We are pleased with the recent report of the New York Times, entitled “Coronavirus Map: Tracking the Global Outbreak,” which includes the Philippines as among countries “where new cases are lower and staying low” over the past week.

While the recent trend of COVID-19 figures is positive, we must continuously correlate it with the submissions being made by laboratories daily. These trends demonstrate that the decisions and actions made by the Administration are working. Government, however, cannot do this alone. We are thus grateful for the dedication and sacrifices of our frontliners in the medical community, the support of the private sector, and the cooperation of the general public in following the minimum public health standards

Let us, however, not be lulled into complacency. The enemy that is COVID-19 is still in our midst, and unless a cure or vaccine has been made available, we must continue to remain vigilant and observe health protocols, such as wearing of masks/face shields, washing of hands and maintaining a physical distance.