EXCEPT for the mandatory wearing of face masks, Davao City is almost experiencing pre-pandemic normalcy.
All establishments have been in full capacity and fully operational status as the erstwhile social distancing requirement has recently been lifted under Executive Order (EO) No. 11. Thus the economy has started bouncing back since 2020 when Covid-19 first struck the country.
Competitions in various sports have also resumed over the past two weeks in different venues.
We celebrate with all Dabawenyos for this milestone, considering that the Alert Level 1 status of the city is a joint effort of everybody - from the medical frontliners, to the local government unit (LGU), private sector, and every Dabawenyo who each does his or her share of complying with the minimum public health standards (MPHS).
Indeed, it is such a great joy to see athletes back on the field, in gyms, or in sports facilities doing what they love doing. Some coaches are up and about, attending to their athletes. Organizers are busy planning for their leagues and processing their permits.
If Davao City’s Covid-19 cases stay low, the Alert Level 1 status may last longer as we all hope. If school-based tournaments restart, maybe (just wishful thinking) varsity scholarships will be revived for student-athletes to stay in school for free and for coaches to win their jobs back.
The easing of restrictions in the city will be a test of our discipline as Dabawenyos. Our behaviors will determine how far we can keep the Alert Level 1 status.
The city government has never been remiss in its duties in managing the Covid-19 response and in repeatedly reminding the public to adhere to the MPHS.
And there is a higher expectation for people in the sports community to be champions of the MPHS, now only limited to the wearing of face masks and hand hygiene since they are known for their discipline and self-control. May they truly live out to what their sports stand for and live by.
Also, may the freedom that we all have been given during this time bring out the best version of ourselves as Dabawenyos.
As for me, I can’t wait to watch a live-action match at Almendras Gym or at Flying V Arena Rizal Memorial Colleges (RMC) Gym or at the UP Sports Complex in Mintal. Hoping it would be soon.