All travelers departing from China, Hong Kong and Macau who are over two years old, including American citizens, are covered by the new rules regardless of vaccination status.
(EDITORIAL)
THE echoes of the pandemic may be fading, but the scars it left on our nation, particularly on our healthcare system, remain vivid. We remember the countless lives lost, the overwhelming fear, and the tireless efforts of our healthcare workers who stood as a bulwark against the invisible enemy.
These heroes, our frontline warriors, risked their lives, worked grueling hours, and endured unimaginable pressure to save lives. Yet, despite their sacrifices, they are now facing a cruel reality: a blatant disregard for their well-being and a blatant betrayal of the promises made to them.
The government’s failure to deliver the promised performance-based bonuses (PBBs) for the past three years is a slap in the face to these dedicated individuals. It’s a shameful display of negligence and a stark reminder of the government’s priorities.
While government agencies that were not on the frontlines have received their benefits, our health workers are left in the lurch, their sacrifices seemingly forgotten. The DBM’s explanation that the DOH central office failed to record the PBB ratings is a flimsy excuse that does little to address the profound injustice inflicted upon these heroes.
The reality is stark: our health workers are struggling to make ends meet, their salaries barely enough to support their families. Now, they are being denied the compensation they rightfully deserve, adding insult to injury.
This blatant disregard for their well-being is driving many of them to seek a better life abroad, leaving our already strained healthcare system even more vulnerable. The government’s inaction is not only a betrayal of the trust placed in them by our healthcare workers but also a threat to the future of our healthcare system.
We must demand accountability from our government. Our health workers deserve better. They deserve the recognition, the compensation, and the support they have earned through their unwavering dedication and bravery. It’s time to honor their sacrifices and ensure that they are not left behind in the fight to rebuild our nation.
