DURING times of calamities and emergency situations, some of our bad traits surface.
It is not unusual to hear reports of overpricing, hoarding and panic buying during these critical days. In stores and supermarkets, we learn that these bad traits are more pronounced. More often, only the moneyed ones do the hoarding. For the poor ones, only panic and no buying!
We do not wish to develop and sustain these bad habits. As much as possible, we let the good ones=hospitable and helpful- outweigh our bad character.
The long wait is, yes, long. A one-month lockdown could spell the destruction of our long-laid plans and disrupt all our programs. Quarantine or restraint upon the activities or communication of persons or the transport of goods and services designed to prevent the spread of disease or pests has brought anxiety for some and despair for others. But I'm sure the authorities imposing it have had long hours in studying if quarantine schemes will be able to contain the coronaviirus and prevent its spread to enormous proportions. So, just what I've said in my last column, let's just grin and bear it!
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As a gesture of unanimity and cooperation, big companies and large conglomerates like Ayala, Aboitiz, SMC and SM Investments Corporation, among others, have magnanimously pitched in their resources and collectively asked the government how further they can help and assist during the duration of the crisis. It is so inspiring of them to think of the plight of masses when it is none of their business to care for them. It is business, remember?
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Miracle at EDSA. So many schemes have been implemented at EDSA to decongest the traffic-laden major thoroughfare. Now, the COVID 19 disease has in one fell swoop erased the congestion reminiscent of Good Fridays when almost all streets are deserted as motorists go elsewhere!
This is only the good aspect of the dreaded disease, nothing else. Meanwhile, the world's finest scientists, researchers and medical practitioners are pooling all their talents and expertise to come up with the much-needed cure for the malady. Until and after the cure is discovered post haste, we may not rest in our countenance and live with constant fear and unfounded anxiety.
No less than the President has warned that local government unit officials will be prosecuted if the guidelines in the lock down schemes are not followed and faithfully implemented. The Department of Interior and Local Government will be hard put to monitor each barangay, town and provinces if they follow the President's directive. We all know how short-tempered he is especially those violators. Hala, sige kayo, galit na ang presidente.