CEBU CITY – Recognizing their contribution to helping the government in the fight against coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) bestowed awards to women front-liners in a ceremony at the Cebu City Medical Center on Thursday.
The PCOO, through its Gender and Development Focal Point System, rolled out the “Parangal For Women Front-liners” through a series of gift-giving as a way to honor women who are helping the government in the fight against Covid-19.
In his speech, PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar said while everyone was afraid of Covid-19, medical front-liners bravely helped the government and the public in a way that made the people “finally see a light at the end of the tunnel”.
“We are now able to live with our loved ones and carry on with our lives. We attribute this achievement to you our front-liners, especially the women who continue to sacrifice everything just so we are kept in harm’s way. As a sign of gratitude for your service to our fellow men and women, the PCOO holds this Parangal For Women Front-liners. It is now our turn to give back and to show you that we are here for you. We hope this somehow mitigates the burden you are carrying,” Andanar said.
Andanar assured the women in Cebu of PCOO’s consistent commitment in advancing their interest, as “we are one with the Philippine Commission on Women in celebrating this year’s National Women’s Month”.
He also cited the efforts of the city governments and localities of the province of Cebu, as well as the Office of the Presidential Assistant for the Visayas (OPAV) in addressing surges in cases of Covid-19.
Acting Vice Mayor Donaldo Hontiveros said despite the delay in the release of their hazard pay, medical front-liners continue to serve in the facilities for treating Covid-19 patients.
“You always go in your way. Work overtime. Knowing that you are not only working for your family, but you are also working for the community, for the City of Cebu, and we appreciate your efforts and sacrifices,” Hontiveros said in mixed Cebuano and English. (PNA)
