THE Cebu City police have one big battle ahead—fighting the unseen enemy.
As of Saturday, March 28, 2020, the Queen City of the South has been put under a state of enhanced community quarantine (ECQ), which will last until 12 noon of April 28—unless sooner lifted or withdrawn.
The police force will be separated from their families and loved ones—yet again reminded of their duty to serve and to protect.
An hour before the ECQ, the City Government (led by Cebu City Mayor Edgardo Labella) distributed 1,000 personal protective equipment (PPE) such as goggles, masks and suits to Cebu City Police Office cops at Plaza Sugbo. Among the distributed equipment was a stove for them to use.
During the send-off ceremony, Chief of Regional Staff Police Colonel Lemuel Obon instructed the police on what to do once they got to their respective houses, and reminded them to always have maximum tolerance when dealing with the public.
Amid the war against the Covid-19 virus, the police chief and the mayor reminded them of their importance in society—that their exposure would mean saving the lives of others.
“We have been separated temporarily from our families and our loved ones, just to perform our duty. Exposing ourselves in order for others to live. Exposing ourselves to the threat of the virus. You inform your loved ones—our families—that we cannot go home yet because of the call of duty,” Obon added, addressing the police force.
Labella thanked the police for choosing to sacrifice their lives in these trying times.
“I will pray that we will conquer this invisible enemy and you will go back to the arms of your loving wife, hug and kiss your children and tell them you did your part in fighting this enemy for their future and the generations to come,” said Labella. (JJL)