EVEN as the country is slowly easing restrictions, the Department of Health (DOH) is reminding the public that the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) is not going away during the Christmas season.
In a press briefing, DOH Officer-in-Charge Maria Rosario Vergeire said the public must keep in mind that the threat of Covid-19 remains present despite drastic improvements in the situation compared to the past two Christmases.
"We must always remember that the virus is still with us. Many are still getting sick. Many are still vulnerable, especially the elderly," said Vergeire.
She said this means that the public must remain adherent to established safety protocols against Covid-19.
Vergeire said this includes private establishments and companies that intend to hold Christmas gatherings in the coming months.
"We must double our efforts to protect ourselves. Let us look at the situation closely if we can hold such activities and always remember our safety protocols," she said.
"We want to remind these to our countrymen, especially with the Christmas season forthcoming and we will be having these parties and other group activities," added Vergeire.
Private and public establishments and businesses are expected to hold Christmas parties and gatherings in the coming months.
This as community restrictions have been eased as compared to the past two years amid the pandemic. (HDT/SunStar Philippines)