Stories that stayed with us from 2021

By Leo Udtohan

In 2021, miraculously effective vaccines showed up, people cared thru community pantries, and more familiar and colorful faces for the May 2022 elections.

What a year it has been. 2021 began with the hope that we would turn the corner on the pandemic. And while things did take steps toward returning to normal, there were spectacular finales making 2021 has been anything but.

2021 was a year with many history-making moments. 

VRS takes a look back at all of the important news and characters we can't forget that captivated much of our attention.

Caring for others 

Giving has surged during the coronavirus crisis.  In Bohol, several community pantries have sprouted in Tagbilaran, Alona Beach in Panglao, Jagna and Talibon towns. 

Mercy Tapia had to endure the long que during the opening of the Bohol Community Pantry at the St. Joseph the Worker Cathedral in this city.

At least 2,000 beneficiaries hoped to get some foods and goods for their families.

Tapia, 42, a wife of a fisherman, said the inclement weather in the past days due to typhoon Bising left her and her family struggling for food. 

The Church’s pantry is providing free rice, eggs, instant noodles, vegetables, fruits and other basic necessities. There is also free porridge and pancakes from "Gugma Tagbilaran Mobile Kusina," a project of Tagbilaran's First Lady Jane Yap. 

Tapia was able to get rice, eggs, vegetables and fruits.  She also received free porridge and pancakes. 

Bishop Uy said community pantries not only provide the needs of our less-fortunate countrymen but it also unite people to share the love of G-d. 

He said pantries also build empathy by engaging meaningfully with others, being aware of other people's needs, and being kind to others and ourselves. 

"There will be a big impact not only  to the poor but also to the rich people who are given the opportunity to help and share the blessings they have. This is also an eye- opener that we need to help each other in order to survive the pandemic," he said. 

Businesswoman Meg Raynaldo, owner of the D'Box in Tagbilaran City, also set up her own Paw Pantry to give free food to cats and dogs. 

Charity is not limited to gifts of money. Sharing time, expertise, or even a kind smile are all forms of charity. Nothing in your pocket? Show some empathy. 

No matter how much you were blessed with, you can always share with others.

It makes sense: you take care of others, and G‑d takes care of you.

Get vaccinated 

A year ago, vaccine drives against COVID-19 were just beginning. Now, more than 382,000  people have had one or more dose. 

The vaccination has saved huge numbers of lives and is a triumph for science and research.

Sadly, the vaccines have not been shared or taken up equitably across the world, nor even, sometimes, within nations. 

Bohol has accomplished 40% vaccination of the 70% of the population which authorities identified as needing to get full protection against coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and its mutation strains

Heath authorities have reported that as of December 9, 2021, vaccination teams in Bohol have reached out to some 382,492 Boholanos who were given the necessary two doses of the COVID-19 vaccines administered at least about a month apart. 

In Tagbilaran, together with their parents, children trooped to vaccination sites in this city inoculation program for children 12 to 17 years old.

Tagbilaran has the highest vaccination rate in Central Visayas, where 64.09% of its target population had been vaccinated.

The city government was helping vaccinate non-Tagbilaran residents.

Local leaders have been encouraging eligible minors to get vaccinated against the virus.

The pandemic isn't over and there's no way to tell who's been vaccinated on the street. 

Understandably, there are inoculations that are produced by multiple pharmaceutical companies, but for the past months these vaccines have been safely tried and proven.

Meta-analysis readings confirmed that therefore, once a vaccine’s reliability is firmly established, there is no worry. 

Encourage your loved ones to get vaccinated.  The more people in our community get vaccinated, the better everyone will be protected.

Do not set yourself apart from the community.

COC filing lures more aspirants

Familiar faces, and even obscure personalities, flocked to local COMELEC offices last October to formally throw their hat into the 2022 national elections ring. 

In Tagbilaran City, the vicinity of the local Commission on Elections (Comelec) office exploded with a riot of colors on the last day of filing of certificates of candidacy (COCs). 

Two colors — green and white — dominated the area. Drumbeats and loud cheers echo the crowd’s excitement (of course, with social distancing). 

Vice Mayor Jose Antonio Veloso filed his COC for mayor. His running-mate is Councilor Augustinus Gonzaga. Familiar face in his slate was Councilor Jonas Cacho who is seeking reelection. 

"This is my last term as Vice Mayor and I have been supporting the programs and activities of the city. What is the best for the city, we will continue. We will improve and expand the programs especially for the youth, senior citizens and education and healthcare," said Veloso.

He said while the city progresses the residents should follow the same and not only for some few families. 

"Ang Tagbilaran usa ka dakbayan, dili gingharian (Tagbilaran is a city, it is not a kingdom)," he said.  

Jane Yap, a former national youth leader and wife of outgoing mayor John Geesnell "Baba" Yap II, filed her COC for mayor. 

If she wins, she will be the first elected lady mayor of Tagbilaran.

Lawyer Adam Relson Jala, who is in his last term as councilor, is her runningmate. In her slate, familiar faces were Ondoy Borja, who is seeking reelection, and Charles Borja who is running for councilor. 

Yap said she will continue the projects and brand of service of her husband to better serve the city residents.

"Our priority is to keep our city more progressive. We all know that there is still a pandemic, and the next three years will be very critical for Tagbilaran City. It is also critical that the pandemic will hinder the progress but we will continue what Mayor Baba has already started," she said. 

Yap became Sangguniang Kabataan (SK president in Bohol. She was elected president in the National SK Federation and  Ex-Officio Commissioner of the National Youth Commission (NYC).

She also founded the charitable organization "Gugma Tagbilaran" which helps the different sectors in the city. 

Earlier, Councilor Vicente "Agalon" Polinar filed his COC. He rode a pedicab going to the city's COMELEC.  He said his running is a liberation for Tagbilaran City from the bondage of high prices of commodities. 

"Liberation has begun in Tagbilaran! Liberation from the bondage of expensive fish, petroleum products, water, and most of all liberation from the bondage of illegal clamping," he said. 

Big names include Gov. Art Yap (for reelection), Vice Governor Rene Relampagos (for reelection), senior board member Victor Balite (for vice governor) , Reps. Edgar Chatto (for reelection), Erico Aristotle Aumentado (for governor) and Alexie Besas-Tutor (for reelection). 

"It is our hope that we can continue to pursue our plans, programs, and activities, including important legislation, towards more growth and development for Bohol," Chatto said. 

If elected, Aumentado said he would work towards strengthening the economy of Bohol by establishing the economic zone. 

"This is to give more job opportunities," Aumentado said. 

Tutor said she would work towards strengthening agriculture, tourism, healthcare and infrastructure like multi-purpose building and road concreting. 

She would also continue her personal advocacies like her ongoing pabahay program and patient transport vehicle in her district. 

"I will never be tired of what I am doing. When you are happy with what you are doing, it should not be considered as work," Tutor said during a mediacon. 

More popular candidates – who have had years of experience working in the legislature –who filed their candidacies were Inabanga Councilor Jono Jumamoy (for  mayor), outgoing Inabanga Mayor Roygie Jumamoy (vice mayor),  outgoing Candijay Mayor Christopher Tutor for vice mayor, lawyer Tomas Abapo Jr for board member, Balilihan Mayor Pureza Chatto for reelection, outgoing Garcia Hernandez Mayor Tita Baja (for board member in 3rd district),  former board member Jaja Jumamoy for 2nd district representative, Dauis Mayor Marietta Sumaylo (for vice mayor), Getafe Mayor Casey Shaun Camacho (for vice mayor), board member Jed Bautista (for mayor in Garcia Hernandez, Panglao Mayor Leonila Montero (for councilor), Lila Mayor Arturo "Jed" Piollo for reelection, and Lila Vice Mayor Regina Salazar (for reelection) 

Jade Bautista, who is running with her slogan “Team GHugma", said the overwhelming support has strengthened and inspired her to strive even harder to pursue her dreams for Garcia Hernandez and the people.  

Bautista said Garcia Hernandez has untapped opportunities and sectors needing further development to realize full potential.

Since Lila is a small town with a population of 12,000, Piollo said he would focus to improve the economic enterprise, health, education and social services.  

Piollo said he wants to develop the giant bamboos as part of the environmental protection effort which was not realized due to the pandemic. 

There were new comers. They were Roman "Amoi" Bullen for mayor in Dauis town and Edgar "Boy" Arcay for mayor in Panglao.

 

Bullen said he wants to improve waterworks, tourism, health, and livelihood in the town. 

"I will eradicate dynasty in Dauis," said Bullen.

In Sevilla, a former SK president Marie Karen Joy Digal-Asoy filed her certificate of candidacy for town councillor. 

Goldie Herrera, daughter of former Vice Gov. Julius Cesar Herrera, Lucille Lagunay were running for 1st district board members, while lawyer Jiselle Rae Aumentado Villamor filed her COC for board member in the second district. 

"This is a big opportunity for me to serve the Boholanos. What I can offer to the Sanggunian, I will be a consensus builder and having conscience. Being a lawyer I am cautious," said Villamor who is a pro-bono lawyer. 

Maria Vanessa Cadorna-Aumentado---a former beauty queen, registered nurse, and entrepreneur---filed her certificate of candidacy for Bohol 2nd District congressional post. 

She aims to continue her husband's public service for the second district through representing the province in Congress. 

"I believe I have the capacity to serve the people especially the second district with competence, commitment, passion and dedication.  I am for the continuity of what has been started by my husband. We all know how he nurtured and served the second district. His good programs are what we will continue," Cadorna-Aumentado said. 

A number of media personalities were seeking elective posts at stake in the 2022 general elections. They were dyRD's Rey Tutas (for Lila councilor), dyTR's Dodong Libatona (for reelection in Balilihan councilor), dyRD's Anthony Aniscal (for Jagna councilor), Bohol Balita Daily News BBDN's Wilson Subrio (for Trinidad councilor), Noel Cagol (for city councilor), and publisher-editor (of BBDN) Jhonny Orioque for mayor in Trinidad.

Oriqoue said he would focus on the town’s agriculture, which is often neglected. 

Fighting discrimination and striving for greater rights for the LGBTQIA+ community, Lovely Anzano, a transgender woman, is seeking political empowerment as she filed her certificate of candidacy  in Inabanga town. 

Anzano, 43, from Barangay Sua, will appear on the ballot under her given name of Fernan Suhayon Anza as an independent candidate. 

She said if elected, Inabanga would have an LGBTQIA+ member on its council — possibly a province's first.

“For many years, we are silent and it is high time for us to speak out and be empowered,” Anzano said.

Benjie Oliva, former commissioner of the National Youth Commission and chairperson of the  Cooperative Development Authority,  has one more dream. He wants to be the “father” in the Halls of Congress for cooperatives, farmers and fisherfolks through KOOP KAMPI Partylist by providing policies and programs that would uplift their lives and their living conditions.

KOOP KAMPI stands for Kooperatiba Kahugpungan sa mga Mag-uuma ug Mangingisda sa Pilipinas. 

Two colorful characters filed their intentions to run for the May 2019 midterm polls. They are Concepcion Flores, a self-acclaimed "billionaire", who is running for governor and Santos Amaga Abella who is running for second district of the provincial board. 

With P500 in his pocket, Abella, took a public bus to provincial COMELEC office to file his candidacy for board member of the 2nd district on Tuesday, Oct. 5. 

But Abella was not usual candidate, he was in clad-suit with an umbrella to match when he filed his candidacy.

Abella, 59, said he is faithful and willing to serve the people even he has no money. 

"It's just true service from my heart," said Abella, a native of Barangay Candelaria in Dagohoy town. 

He ran for the same position in 2016 and 2019 elections.

"I will never give up. If you will give up you don't believe in your dream," he said when asked if he was tired for losing twice. 

Before he left the COMELEC, he performed a song dedicated to the Boholano farmers to the amusement of spectators and other filers. 

Aspiring for public office is a political right.

1st Mister Bohol

After delays, the Miss Universe Philippines (MUP) was held in Bohol on September 30 at the Henann Resort Convention Center in Panglao. 

Beatrice Luigi Gomez, an openly gay model-athlete from Cebu, was crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2021. She bested 27 other candidates for the prestigious crown.

In the final Q&A, Gomez was asked: “If during your reign as Miss Universe Philippines, things happen in your life that make you sad and uninspired, how would you be able to continue inspiring others?”

Gomez answered: “It is very evident that all of us went through difficulties during this pandemic, but it is also true that we are able to rise to the occasion. And if anything happened to me during my race, I will not give up and inspire others by rising to the problems that I am encountering, and whatever you’re going through, you will be able to overcome it.”

For its first edition, Mister Bohol crowned Arneil Kadudale of Trinidad town as the winner. 

Kadusale, 24, who also won the Best in Interview and Barong Tagalog, bested other 26 other aspirants from different towns of the province's first "no audience" male pageant. 

"To be a Mister Bohol 2021 is someone who can carry responsibility with passion and dedication," Kadusale said after the pageant. 

As a licensed professional teacher and as a Sangguniang Kabataan chairperson at the same time, he said he joined the competition to bring his advocacy on education in order to encourage bigger audience of youth to value and prioritize their education.

"Education is really the thing that I am advocating (with) because I am firm believer that it is a doorway to success and it serves as our strongest and the most power weapon in life to get victory and success," he added. 

Kadusale is presently a college teacher at BIT-International College in Tagbilaran. 

Dan Joshua Olaco of Panglao town was declared Mister Bohol Tourism and Jeff Nheil Usaraga of Inabanga town was proclaimed Mister Bohol Ambassador. 

Paul Pegi of Calape who finished first runner-up, and John Michael Eyo of Alburquerque placed second runner-up. 

According to Gerry Lugod, the pageant director, Mister Bohol was conceptualized by the late  Boholano acclaimed film and TV director Maryo de los Reyes in 2018.  De los Reyes was known for award-winning movies Magnifico and Naglalayag. 

"It's a tribute to Direk Maryo," Lugod said. 

'Ripa' scam 

I was one of the thousands of Boholanos duped by people behind a new scam- ripa/repa. 

It was so late to notice some warning signs to watch out for - "too good to be true",  the resellers have no personality or capacity to refund the money, and pressure to "buy" the slots for a limited time. 

It's not about "phantom riches" but 

unscrupulous people who will try to take advantage of people’s needs this pandemic. 

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has warned the public to be cautious in putting their money in investment instruments like "ripa" or “paluwagan,” an informal group money-lending system.

“Do not invest in schemes that are not registered, because you might find yourself on the losing end,” the agency said.

“If it is too good to be true, and the transaction is done in a discreet manner, the people should suspect [the legitimacy of the scheme],” it added.

The SEC has been raising alert over schemes, especially amid the COVID-19 pandemic when people are looking for immediate sources of income.

A help center supervised by the provincial government, the police, NBI and the CIDG was put up to assist the victims. Local officials have urged other investors to file their complaints. 

The scam takes off from the paluwagan, a traditional money-saving practice among groups whose members know one another, either because they are officemates or friends or they belong to a clan or family.

What lured many of the investors was the high returns received by those who joined the scheme earlier.

Members usually contribute to a pot of money that each of them will receive when their turn comes. The rotation is usually decided by drawing lots (ripa). 

As practiced, ripa is built on trust and that no profit is promised because the total amount of the pot at a given time is the same that one will contribute over the entire life of the scheme. 

In Bohol, the scheme has many “administrators” who are usually hiding from its investors. 

A woman went to the provincial police headquarters at Camp Francisco Dagohoy last week, asking policemen to help her recover P35 million which was set to be returned to her clients whom she called “buyers.”

She said she failed to release the payout to her “buyers” when the administrators and coordinators disappeared.

“I have been receiving death threats from my buyers. If I can’t return the money or even the capital, they said they will kill me,” she said.

The woman said she didn’t know the “administrators” since she just remitted the money to a “coordinator.”

It was estimated that the "ripa" scheme duped over 1,000 Boholanos and amassed over P2 billion.

Remember, “if it sounds too good to be true," it usually is.

Sa Bisaya pa, "Di na gyud ko muusab, kausa nalang..." 

Homeless at Christmas 

Visayans who survived the fiercest typhoon in 2021 are struggling to find water, food, fuel and cash, days after Typhoon “Odette” (Rai) ravaged the region last Dec. 16, 2021. Many areas still do not have electricity and telecommunication services are still intermittent.

In Bohol, major streets in the capital city of Tagbilaran are experiencing gridlocks as residents packed grocery stores to buy bottled water while others queued at automated teller machines (ATMs) and money remittance centers.

Nearly 4 million people in Visayas and Mindanao were affected by Typhoon Rai, according to the Philippine National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).

In Bohol, thousands remained displaced during Christmas and New Year -- one of the most important holidays in the Catholic-majority nation.

The province was still plunged in darkness.

But typhoon evacuees still celebrated the coming of the new year with simple gatherings.

“We just slept,” said Ma. Rosa Batuan whose house in Barangay Calanggaman was destroyed by the typhoon. 

While the New Year celebration was met with fireworks, these were significantly fewer and shorter duration compared to previous years.

The death toll in Bohol has climbed to at least 109 people. 

Those we lost in 2021: A remembrance

Comedian Inday Ruping, whose real names was Rizalino Torralba, drifted into an eternal sleep last Saturday night (March 27). He was 45. 

Simply Titon to his the family, friends and the entertainment industry, the famous DJ loved for his hearty laughter. 

In 2006, when a radio program "Bisaya" was vacated in by Inday Cristala (who's in Taiwan now), Titon tried to apply just for fun. He chose the screen name DJ Ruffa, but the name wasn't a click and was changed into Inday Rufing/Ruping.  As manghuhula would say, he was destined to become a star who carved a name in the airwaves; it was written in the stars.

And the rest was history. Inday Ruping became an household name who tickled our funny bones. 

Titon was fun to be with...witty, well-read and without any air or superiority complex.

In the entertainment industry, he was the real "Mother." With his passion and knowledge, he made sure that the industry was constantly improving. He made sure other talents were given an oportunity to shine and earn. He was admired and respected in the industry. As a person, he was very thoughtful, generous and compassionate.

My most unforgettable interview with Titon was in May 2008 while writing for the defunct Bohol Sunday Post. Among the biggest bombshells: He was raped by a woman, and, he had a son! And that explosive revelations that shocked the world are still the talk of the town 13 years later. 

Titon was an open book, an exciting interviewee who fielded every question you threw at him, even the most personal ones, and did it with wit and humor. Maybe that’s one thing the new breed of entertainers can learn from Titon — not to be over-protective of themselves, not to be onion-skinned and not to flaunt any symptoms of star complex. Until the very end, Titon remained accessible, humble and lovable.

On Christmas Day, Ferome Jusgorge Almine, the "The Big Man with a Big Voice", also left us. He was a dedicated public servant who served as Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Chair and Barangay Kagawad of Barangay Mansasa, Tagbilaran City.  He was also a popular figure in Bohol's events industry which included government activities, festivals, talent competitions, concerts, beauty pageants, birthdays, and weddings. 

He had exhibited remarkable talents in hosting, organizing, and designing.

We also lost our media colleagues: Jessie Bantugan, Nilo Sapong, Prof. Reinerio Augusto Real, and former editor and DJ June Blanco. 

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Thanks for your letters, all will be answered. Comments welcome at leoudtohan@yahoo.com, follow leoudtohanINQ at Twitter /Facebook.

The treasures of Butch Bernas

Butch Bernas: 'Be yourself.'

Last thing VRS asked Butch Matildo Jala Bernas, Ph. D. during a Zoom interview was what three words best described him.

Simple. Jolly. Traveller. 

He proved it by answering the rest of the questions with honesty, with no holds barred and without mincing words. 

As an educator and cultural worker, Butch is also a "fitspiration". With his determination to stay fit and healthy, he goes to J-One Gym Xtreme (3F Ingki's Building in Janssen Heights in Barangay Dampas, Tagbilaran City) where he works out regularly.  Zoom out a bit and you notice his almost to-die-for body. 

Asked if he’d agree to do some “sexy talk,” Butch begged off. 

So VRS veered away from such topic and turned serious including what his biggest fear is during this COVID-19 pandemic.

"My biggest fear during this pandemic, of course, is if get infected without available vaccine yet, " Butch admitted, "My family’s health is my main priority right now." 

How do you protect yourself from COVID-19? 

"Following health protocols (wearing face mask, washing hands with soap and water, use alcohol and observe social distancing) set by the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) and the City Health and keeping fit," said the erstwhile member of the famous Bukang Liwayway Dance Troupe (BLDT) and subsequently named Mr BLDT 2010. 

 

Career-wise, shared Butch, he’s happy he decided to transfer to a new school assignment. 

Thank goodness he is fancy-free.

Butch weighs 158 lbs.; and wears medium-size shirts and size-10 shoes.

What is your motto in life? "Be yourself." 

What do you want to achieve? "Having a cross-fit body, enjoying some photo shoots for personal keeps and memorabilia."

Butch Bernas says keeping fit is the best defense against the virus, aside from following the protocols. 

What diet do you follow? "I’m following an intermittent diet for now." 

How do you keep fit? "Caloric count and going to the gym for fitness." 

What regimen do you do to achieve that fit body? "Sleep early, taking vitamins, eating foods rich in proteins, avoid eating too much carbohydrates and oily foods, drink plenty of water. If possible, no to soda drinks."

What is sexy to you? "It depends on how you perceive a person’s eyes."

What part of your body do you consider sexiest? "Having a tan skin complexion and a tantalizing eyes."

Most treasured people: "My family and intimate close friends."

Most treasured childhood treasures: "Childhood is the most unforgettable period of my life. Everyone has childhood memories. My childhood memories took place in Pilar, Bohol. We had a small convenience store where kids loved to buy our favorite snacks. I also involved myself in many church and community activities." 

Most treasured travel destination: "My Japan trip.  I love Japan because of its  incredible mountain scenery, architecture, history, culture and tradition, and of course, the incredible cuisine." 

Most treasured moment as an educator: "I graduated my PhD in Educational Management. By God's grace, I was promoted in my workplace despite several odds." 

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Thanks for your letters, all will be answered. Comments welcome at leoudtohan@yahoo.com, follow leoudtohanINQ at Twitter /Facebook.

Celebrating Passover, Holy Week, in time of pandemic

Your VRS celebrating Passover, one of the most important festivals in the Jewish calendar. In Seder, the ritual dinner consists of storytelling, prayers, and symbolic food items.

It's hard to believe that after an entire year of uncertainty, Passover (Pesach) has once again arrived.

And this week is holy to both Jews and Christians—the celebration of Passover, for Jews, which started Saturday evening, and of Holy Week (Passion Week) , the commemoration of Jesus’ death and resurrection, which started on Sunday, Palm Sunday.

For Christians, the week allows the faithful to commemorate the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  This is a week to prepare for Easter Sunday, which is the most important Christian holiday, because it is through Christ’s sacrifice that humanity became reconciled with G-d. 

Passover tells the story of the persecution of the Jewish people and their exodus from Egypt. It is observed for seven or eight days and marked with two ceremonial diners, known as seders, and it is a time to acknowledge the suffering of others, as well as, celebrate freedom.

Jewish people across the world refrain from eating bread and other leavened food for eight days – instead eating unleavened bread (matzo) and bitter herbs at home called a Seder (which means “order” in Hebrew) is celebrated around a dinner table.

This time though, even as many of us are still deeply affected by the coronavirus disease, we thank G-d that vaccines are rolling out, and we finally see hope that this crisis will soon “pass over” us. 

Let us be thankful to G-d for for His blessings. 

I wish you and your loved ones a happy and healthy Passover!

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Last week, I'd received notification from Katrina Tuñacao, the assigned contact tracer, that I am tested negative for the coronavirus (COVID-19).

I entered self-isolation on March 15 after I learned that I was exposed to friends (at least three of them) who contracted the virus. 

For peace of mind, I decided to proceed with the COVID-19 test out of care and caution for my family and the community. 

I am very grateful to all of you who have kept me in your prayers or who have sent me well wishes and notes of encouragement. 

Our special thanks to Dr. Doloreich Dumaluan (the host of popular "The Doctor Is In" , the only public health program in Bohol) for checking my health and other mediamen who were potentially exposed to someone with COVID-19.  Thanks also to Reichyl Dumaluan-Vallente for the rice ayuda for us. 

I ask for your continued prayers for those who have died from this virus and for those who remain in self-isolation because of it. 

We pray for our health workers and first responders who dedicate their lives every day to fighting for our lives, even while putting their own at risk. 

My heart is filled with joy because G-d has given me another chance to choose life as I am able to celebrate the Passover Seder.. 

The Torah (Pentateuch or Five Books of Moses) repeatedly reminds us that human life is precious and a gift from G-d. In this pandemic, we stand together and are reminded to choose life.  

Rock of Ages and Source of Life, 

Bring an end to disease and suffering,

So that all may know

Your compassion and Your grace.

Praised are You, G-d, healer of flesh, maker of wonders.

G-d is good all the time! Baruch HaShem Adonai!

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Thanks for your letters, all will be answered. Comments welcome at leoudtohan@yahoo.com, follow leoudtohanINQ at Twitter /Facebook.

How to safely celebrate Christmas 2020 during Covid

After nearly nine months, pandemic fatigue is real.  And here is Christmas 2020 which is likely to be far different — severely limiting our ability to gather, and negatively affecting the health and finances of many — but let us not forget the Jesus is the reason. Contributed Photos 

Summer, Lenten, graduations, fiestas and Halloween have all gone by and like everything else in 2020, they’ve felt really different.  Now, Christmas is coming and …it will likely feel really different as our government advised us to simplify our Christmas celebrations. 

VRS wanted to know how our friends are planning to navigate, connect, celebrate and reflect the holiday season. 

Merly Diez-Bantugan- Christmas  is celebrated the same as before amid this pandemic time and that is celebrating the yuletide season purely with the immediate members of the family. It has always been the family's tradition not to miss attending the dawn masses for 9 consecutive days. However,  our Lindaville  parish has strategized to celebrate one Holy Mass at dawn and one at 8 in the evening to avoid too much crowd. Then on the Christmas day itself,  we go out dining either in the city or in Panglao. In the evening is the most awaited gift giving and concluded by watching movie or tv shows at home. Gifts for the inaanaks this time are just sent.

PEMS Melinda Mendez-Basalo-  I will be celebrating the Christmas amidst this pandemic still with my family at home maybe in my hometown if time permits because we will be on full alert this holiday season and my husband cannot come home from Cebu because of the strict health protocols in our province. It would be very simple just us with my Mama, brothers, sisters and their respective families, eat the lechon and other Christmas favorites, our traditional exchange of gifts and sharing of gifts and never forget to attend Holy Mass whether it would be an on-line Mass or in Church which is the most important event of this celebration, Jesus's birth is the reason of the season. Even if this Christmas would be different from the rest of the Christmases in my life because of the pandemic, let us not forget that God let this happen in order for us to celebrate simply and focus on Jesus who  was humble enough to be born in a manger as the best example for humility and obedience. Let us be everyone's blessings for it is the great sign that God's love is indeed alive not only this holiday season but for all the days of our lives. Let us continue sharing to the least of our brothers and sisters who have lost their jobs and livelihood. Merry Christmas and may the New Year 2021 will be a great pandemic free Year for the world.

Dr. April Lumuthang-Froilan- Christmas is celebrated by people around the world, whether they are Christians or not. It's the time when family and friends come together to celebrate the birth of Jesus. This year, celebrating Christmas will be quite different for me and for the majority as well. Since Covid era is here, social gatherings are highly discouraged. It is still best to stay home, stay healthy and celebrate Christmas with your family. Our usual Christmas day visit to the children in the orphanage will surely be  postponed. Instead of hosting a huge extavagant party, I'd like to make food deliveries to the less fortunate ones on Christmas day. Despite this pandemic, I still can feel the spirit of Christmas by sharing my own blessings. 

Elvie Bongosia- As the world celebrates Christ's birth, we may be going through difficult times with this pandemic, despair not for Jesus is born to save each one of us, no matter what we are going through. We will  have a simple celebration with our family.  After all, Jesus is the reason for the season!

Jhoel Lim- Amidst the pandemic, let's not forget the true meaning of Christmas and the most meaningful way of celebrating this spirit of joy is by spending more quality time with our family and fill our home with love, kindness and unity.

Vilma Yorong- I will celebrate Christmas at home as we usually do. This year, a new addition to the family make us more thankful and happier. We are blessed with a new baby Zion who always makes our day more lively. 

Fiel Angeli Gabin- Christmas in the past years was crossing the deep blue see to go to Siquijor to spend the holidays with Mommy Lou and the rest of the family there, then coming home to Tagbilaran to welcome the New Year with Mama Wincie.  However, for this 2020, with the strict travel restrictions still imposed due to the surging CoViD-19 cases in Bohol, we will just celebrate the birth of Jesus, our Savior, at home by watching the online mass and sharing the food we prepare, with sincere prayers that those who have less in life, especially during this time of the pandemic and the recent typhoons, may find joy in their hearts to thank God for the gift of life and love of family despite the challenges.

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These "reminders" contributed by Arlene Pesquira of Tagbilaran City who is celebrating her birthday today, Dec. 6, who got it from a friend, source unknown. 

*Live life to the fullest.

*Say "I love you" to people who are dear to you. 

*Laugh hard. 

*Eat good food. 

* Continue to be a blessing to others.

* Enjoy the simple things. 

*Be grateful for the borrowed time given to us. 

*Don’t call someone more than twice continuously. If they don’t answer, it simply means they have something more important to attend to.

*Return money that you have borrowed even before the other person asks for it. It shows your integrity & character.

*Treat a cleaner with the same respect that you would treat the CEO. Nobody is impressed at how rudely you can treat someone below you, but people will definitely notice if you treat them with respect.

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'Encantadia' -inspired face shields grab attention in Bohol

Some residents wear the normal design and 'Encantadia' -inspired face shields locally produced in Tagbilaran City, Bohol to protect them from the virus. Photos: Leo Udtohan

After losing his food business due to the health crisis, Diego Salvador is now overwhelmed with the exponential increase in the number of orders he gets for producing customized face shields. 

Different kinds of face shields are sprouting everywhere as local governments declared them mandatory to fight the spread of COVID-19.

Diego's face shields started when he thought of a business that it is in line with the current COVID-19 needs for protection. 

Diego, 34, came out with a unique handmade design.

He explained that face shields require flexible materials to hold the plastic cover around the head.

He said the face shields production not only help protect people, but also support people so that they could survive through the economic crisis while providing readily available and locally made face shields. 

"A D-I-Y (do it yourself) face shield comes from an affordable materials with 100 percent quality,with variety of designs you can choose from," said Diego, also a musician. 

For normal design face shields, the cost is P40 each. 

Some people asked him to make face shields inspired by the headpieces worn by Sang'gres on GMA-7 teleserye "Encantadia."

He sold the bedazzled face shields at only P190 each.

A small group of young "Encantadia" fans were even seen sporting the product and emulating the Sang'gres-Amihan (keeper of gem of wind/air), Elena (keeper of gem of water), Danaya (keeper of gem of earth) and Pirena (keeper of gem of fire). 

Diego Salvador makes locally produced face shields. Photo: Leo Udtohan

For inquiries about the face shields, you can contact Diego through mobile phone number  09952069573. You can also order online through "Kinamot Ta Bai" on Facebook. 

Avisala Eshma! Ashte Mashte Lesnum Bohol! (Thank you! May peace be kept throughout Bohol!). 

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Here’s an interesting article written by Dr. Mark Romero, MD he posted on Facebook.  I can't resist sharing his article. 

I write tonight as an individual citizen and as a doctor. Neither do I claim to speak for the institution I work in, nor for the organizations I belong to.

There is talk of the business sector lobbying local government to further ease restrictions and to fully open the economy.

Whether these rumors are unfounded or not is another topic altogether, but I hope to convey to local leaders of industry that their concerns are not without basis.

This conviction, however, reveals gaps in what many -- leaders, businessmen, citizens -- know about the local situation, as seen by someone on the front lines:

(1) #Bohol's healthcare system is inadequately prepared for any (present or future) surge. While we thank our leaders for the two PCR labs we have, one fact remains:

The province only has one (1) Covid hospital (GCGMH). The district hospitals administered by the province are not designated as such.

This fact alone should give us pause.

(2) Prematurely reopening the economy will further add losses to businesses in the long run.

That everyone is suffering is a fact. And so the question becomes: Short of eliminating the economic loss, how do we minimize it?

The internet is rife with analyses by economists both foreign and local, and the aforementioned consensus is clear:

Rushing things through with little regard for data, science, evidence, and global best practices will hurt everyone in the long term. (The public has a sense of this, as per research done by Mr Michael Canares.)

(3) It is incumbent upon leaders -- legislators, the executive, and the business community -- to proactively and willingly learn how evidence is generated, and how contemporary science works.

Gone are the days when any science textbook (or website, or page) is as good as any. The only thing better than good science is better science (one that is founded on emerging evidence, not on any preconceived belief or convenience).

(4) Communication and transparency is key, more so in crises. It is not enough that the public is informed of decisions made -- Equally important too is communicating how these decisions were made. -- And this principle should cut across all levels: national, provincial, city/municipal, and down to the institutions and hospitals we work in. 

I pray we move forward stronger.

#Amping.

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Nasal washing is important

Siblings Drs. Doloreich Dumaluan (left) and Theodore Dumaluan on fighting against COVID-19. Photo: Allen Doydora/DYRD

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has ignited interest in viral transmission and prevention owing to the extent of it and significan morbidity and mortality associated with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).

Nature Medicine said the cells in the eye and some other organs also contain the viral-entry proteins. The study also predicts how a key entry protein is regulated with other immune system genes and reveals potential targets for the development of treatments to reduce transmission.

The COVID-19 affects the lungs and airways. In the worst cases, the virus causes pneumonia that can ultimately lead to death. The virus is thought to be spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and appears to be easily transmitted within affected areas. 

Just like our teeth, our nasal needs cleaning.

Last Saturday's "The Doctor is In" (with Dr. Doloreich Dumaluan as the main resource person), the topic was about nasal washing. 

Sinus rinsing, using a saline solution of salt and water, can be beneficial for those with allergies and sinus and nasal diseases. 

It moisturizes the nose while flushing out allergens and mucus, says Theodore "Doyet" Dumaluan, M.D., an eye, ear, nose and throat (EENT) surgeon. 

He said all infections of the body result from failure of innate immune system.

The primary defense against respiratory infection is in the nose in the way of mucus clearance. 

Dumaluan recommends spray washing (not nasal irrigation) "because it is very convenient and gentle, easy to apply on daily basis, adaptable to all ages and generally safe."

But with the rise of the novel coronavirus, nasal washing is recommended. 

Here' an article from Theodore Dumaluan, EENT about  Novel Nasal Wash for Airborne Particles: a home remedy solution I lifted from his Facebook page" Nasal Care": 

Nasal washing, in its practical sense, would mean sanitation. That is, lessening the number of contaminants lodged in the nasal cavity. Since it started as an ancient Hindu practice in preparation for meditation, a significant amount of liquid was used to pass into the nasal cavity to cleanse it.  Neti pot, a tea pot shaped vessel, was popularized in the early 70’s. It delivers saline solution into the nasal cavity by gravity; that is, positioning the tilted head below the pot while pressing the spout into the nostril. 

Since then, with the basic principles in place, nasal washing evolved with the use of squirt bottles and mist sprays (and even automated irrigation-aspiration device). 

A study was done to prove the efficacy of saline nasal lavage for long term use (1 year) with unfavorable outcome, showing lower incidence of infection AFTER discontinuing. 

The recommendation then was not to use saline nasal irrigation on a regular basis, only when there is infection. One possible reason for the risk of infection is the retention of fluids in the sinuses, when not properly drained, which favors pathogenic eruption as normal saline has no antiseptic potential.

Saline nasal (lavage)wash is basically good, but not for long term. We unknowingly inhale airborne particles (dust, pollen, virus, bacteria etc.) from the environment most of the time, on a daily basis, that would trigger allergic reactions to acute and chronic infection. These micro-particles are initially trapped in the mucus layer covering the nasal epithelium. Our innate immune system has limited capacity, depending on the load and virulence of the pathogen, among others.

How do we balance the issues of long-term wash, daily airborne-particle load, and pathogenic virulence which maybe carried?

In washing, what you cannot do with small volume, you can compensate with technique. Mist sprays cannot mechanically displace contaminated mucus but can deliver enough liquid coating to lessen viscosity and make it more displaceable. If we coat it with layers of saline, good mucus clearance is attained easing down particle load, without possibility of fluid retention in the sinuses that predisposes to infection.

Apparently, saline is not enough.  How do we address pathogenicity?

 Povidone-Iodine (PVI) is a very potent antiseptic, which is widely available and has been around for ages. It is the only antiseptic which increases biocidal potency, at contact time of 15 seconds, when diluted. Free Iodine, the active component, is released when 10% PVI is diluted, with the highest free Iodine at 0.1% dilution (4.88 ppm) where it is tasteless, odorless and colorless. 

At the same dilution, studies have shown that it is non-toxic to the ciliary lining of the nasal mucosal epithelium.  The free Iodine is involved in blocking viral attachment to cellular receptors and inhibits viral release and spread from infected cells. PVI is useful to prevent infection and limit spread of human and avian influenza viruses. 

Virgin coconut oil (VCO) is generally recommended and safe (GRAS) oil for oral intake and local application. It has antiulcerogenic activity, thus a good mucosal conditioner, minimizing the mild irritating effect of hyperyonic saline. Its monolaurin compounds reduce viral infectivity of enveloped RNA and DNA viruses. Though local application may trigger irritation and mild allergic reaction, it is not common.

Delivering the saline wash thru pump mist spray minimizes fluid retention; VCO promotes nasal mucosal epithelium function, and together with the free iodine from PVI, biocidal activity is potentiated without ciliotoxicity. This Saline-Iodine-VCO (SIV) emulsion wash is a novel home remedy solution made with boiled/sterile water.

 

Thus, SIV emulsion is a safe nasal wash solution for daily hygiene, with minimal tolerable irritation, delivered with pump nasal spray bottle and can be applied 2-3x a day.

Homemade saline solution requires the following:

1. 4 cups of distilled or boiled (for at least 20minutes) water. Cooled later.

2. 1 tsp iodized salt

3. An airtight storage container with a lid, such as 350ml bottle 

To make saline solution (stock): 

 A. Wash hands thoroughly

 B. Sterilize container and mixing utensil using dishwasher or boiling them in water

 C. Pour 300-350 of the cooled sterile water into 350 ml sterilized bottle

 D. Add and mix 1 tsp of iodized salt into the bottle.

To make SIV emulsion wash with 30 ml saline in spray bottle:

A. Add 3-5 drops of 10% PVI (Betadine) then

B. Add 2 ml VCO

To apply, shake the spray bottle thoroughly to emulsify the oil before using.  Position spray tip 2-3mm in the nasal opening. Apply 3 rounds of 5 puffs per nostril, sniffing in every puff and blow out gently after every round. Wash nose 3x a day. Refill with stock saline when consumed then add PVI and VCO.

(See technique at  "Nasal Care" Facebook page)

https://www.facebook.com/107202160845042/videos/507688963266732/

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I'm wearing a mask for you

Wearing a mask, for most of us, is novel. But we need to wear masks in these days of COVID-19 to protect ourselves and the community.

At lunchtime Saturday in the neighborhood, people were out and most were not wearing masks.

I can’t say I was surprised. Even though Bohol has only 29 confirmed cases of coronavirus disease, a lot of people have begun acting as if the pandemic is over. 

Wearing a mask, for most of us, is novel. So others are in "rebellion." 

But, yes, I'm wearing a mask in these days of COVID-19, to protect myself and the community. Wearing a mask is a true sign of respect for others; it's not an impingement on one’s freedom.

"I wear a face mask for protection from the spread of the dreaded Covid-19 virus, " says Maria Fe Evasco, manager of the National Food Authority (NFA)- Bohol. 

For multi-awarded youth leader Clement Paulinel Ingking, coronavirus is real. 

"Wearing a mask isn’t only about protecting you or your family, but also it’s about protect others that may die if they get the virus," says Clement who is also a village councilman in Booy. 

"This isn’t a flu, it is real. Until you have actually taken care of those patients in the ICU, you don’t even come close to imagining what they are going through! The two main reasons I wear masks. There's some evidence of protection for the wearer, but the stronger evidence is that masks protect others from catching an infection from the person wearing the mask. And infected people can spread the virus just by talking. So I highly encourage everyone to wear a mask and please wear it properly, " adds Clement. 

Bohol's Baking Mama Leah Tirol-Magno says masks help stop the spread of coronavirus. 

"I wear mask because it is the right thing to do. I care for myself and I care for others," says Leah, an educator- agri-entrepreneur. 

Experts say a key transmission route of COVID-19 is via droplets that fly out of our mouths—that includes when we speak, not just when we cough or sneeze. A portion of these droplets quickly evaporate, becoming tiny particles whose inhalation by those nearby is hard to prevent. 

I also know that homemade masks aren't as effective as surgical-grade PPE, but let's leave the PPE for medical people.

If you have extra money, you can buy a face shiled to protect you more when in public places. 

I am using face shield to protect myself when I'm in public places. I think face shield provides better facial protection than masks, as well as being reusable, breathable and more comfortable. It prevents me from touching my face and makes it easier for me to communicate with others. 

Meanwhile, here' s a very short essay I've read on Facebook why wearing mask is important. I don't know the original author is, but I think it's worth to ponder. 

I wear a mask 😷 in public,stand two meters apart from you and I wash my hands.

I want you to know that I respect you and that I could be asymptomatic and give you the virus.

No, I don't "live in fear" of the virus, I just want to be part of the solution, not the problem.

I don't feel like the "government controls me", I feel like I'm a responsible adult contributing to society.

The world doesn't revolve around me.

 

This virus does not know my race, color, age or any status.

Wearing a mask and standing two meters apart doesn't make me paranoid, weak, scared, stupid or even "controlled", it makes me caring and respectful. 

I wear my mask to protect you.

You wear your mask to protect me.

We should all wear masks.

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TinTin Ng is giving back during the Coronavirus pandemic

Boholana actressTintin Ng is doing her part to help other people as the coronavirus spreads in the province.

Amid the pandemic, celebrities and artists have been using their platforms to spread awareness, whether it's by sharing videos of themselves washing their hands or advising fans to stay home and practice social distancing. 

As the coronavirus spreads in the country, actress and performer Christine “Tintin” Ng 

is doing her part to help.

Tintin is feeding children at Sunshine Home and at the Tagbilaran old dumpsite area. 

She also joined her friends distributing food packs, face masks and vitamins courtesy of actress and entrepreneur Kate Brios to frontliners in Getafe and other parts of Bohol. 

"In times like this, it is very important to be united and support however we can to help our fellow kababayans," Tintin said. 

The Boholana actress was able to go home before the lockdown on March 16 to be with her family. 

She will stay here until it will be safe to travel back to Manila for her pending projects and appearances on TV. 

But helping other people in her own small ways is keeping her busy. 

"We need to stand together and care for one another," she added.

Tintin was discovered by the late Boholano renowned director Maryo delos Reyes. 

She appears in Nandito Ako Nagmamahal Sa ‘Yo (2008), I’ll Be There (2010) and in some indie films like Biktima (2010), Pendong (2010) and Mainit (2011).

Her breakthrough role, however, was on GMA 7’s Dwarfina and Munting Heredera which showcased Tintin’s natural acting. 

On and off the camera, Tintin makes you laugh with her wits. 

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Panglao, still beautiful

 

In Panglao, without all the boats and people in the sea, the water is as clear as it's been in a long, long time. Photo by Leo Udtohan

I terribly missed the beach.  Swimming and snorkeling is one of the pleasures of pre-quarantine life.

When veteran journalist Ric Obedencio asked us if we could join him for an excursion in Panglao town, Helen Castano and I didn’t waste time.

We visited Alona first. The place is almost empty where it is used to be packed with tourists. Without all the boats and people in the sea, the water is as clear as it's been in a long, long time.

In an interview with Panglao Mayor Leonila Paredes-Montero she told us that Panglao tourism will be back to business this week if they will be allowed by the Inter-Agency Task Force, Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) to re-open.

 

And if allowed to open, Maam Nila said the target would be domestic tourists.

Maam Nila said at least 5,000 tourism-related business establishments in Panglao were affected since February.

The tourism industry in Bohol has been tested by times. The 1990 typhoon Ruping (international name: Mike), the 2000 Y2K bug and the 2013 7.2 magnitude earthquake crippled the tourism industry particularly in Panglao. But slowly, the tourism was able to bounce back.

"The tourism stopped and it took us years to recover. Since this is pandemic it will take time to recover because the world economy is really affected," said Maam Nila.

But even if tourism is back, some resort owners chose to suspend operations for fear of the virus.

 

When I met Anthony Ceniza, supervisor of Marilou Resort in Barangay Bolod, he said they will remain close indefinitely.

"So far, we can't open until there is a vaccine. It will be difficult since there's no assurance of what will happen to us. Let's us leave it this way, we will wait and follow the government," he said.

Anthony said one seemingly positive impact of the majority of Bohol remaining inside during the coronavirus outbreak is being seen off of our shores.

He said the beaches become clearer with less garbage in the absence of human activity due to the government’s efforts to mitigate the spread of Covid-19.

 

Anthony said visitors can see a refreshing Panglao during their next trip in Bohol.

 

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How TAN models are coping

Nick Gumanit, Erika Ahern and Mark Brandon Philipps are busy during these unprecedented times.

As the lockdown forces many sectors to work from home, what are models up to these days? VRS asked some of the models of The Art Noueveau (TAN) how they’re keeping busy during these unprecedented times.

How does their day start and how does it end?

"If I'm not lazy enough I work out and study," said Nick Gumanit, 19, 2nd runner-up in Sandugo Festival King 2019, who is stranded in Cebu City.

" I have a healthy breakfast. I end my day watching a movie or an episode of one of my favorite series," said 17-year-old model and Vlogger Mark Brandon Philipps.

"I walk outside with my dog and I work out," said fellow model and Vlogger Erika Ahern, 16, who hails from Ubay town.

They shared that social media has saved the days by offering sources of inspiration, creativity and a much-needed break from the monotony of lockdown.

Aside from your barber (wink), what do you miss most about the “outside” world?
Nick: Playing basketball and having a good time with friends.
Mark: Hanging out with my friends and going to the beach.
Erika: What I miss is going out with my frnds and going to the beach.

How do you protect yourself from COVID-19?
Nick: I follow the law or rules of our government like staying at home.
Mark: I wash my hands and I avoid touching my face.
Erika: I use alcohol to disinfect myself and I wear mask every time I go out.

How do you envision post-COVID life?
Nick: The pandemic creates a big impact to me. I have learned to value everything that I have. I've realized that I'm blessed enough, and I'm grateful for the gift of life. And I'm so thankful for the people who never fail to support me. It's more than a billion peso reward.
Mark: I think most of the people are at home.

Erika: For me, a lot of people are still scared to go out. 

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'Lockdowned' at home

Being on lockdown doesn't have to be boring, not if you keep yourself occupied. If you've pretty much completed all of Netflix, you can change up your routine and look for other things to do. You can let those creative juices flowing.

 

You can learn how these aspiring models are coping with being cooped-up at home.

 

"The first thing that starts my day is through a prayer. I do jogging and walking 3 times a week. I do household chores then if I have time I used to play guitar and make some dance covers daily. And my day ends with a workout because I don't have time to do it in the morning or afternoon," said Arnel Corbita, 19, who was the grand finalist of Mr. Teen ICM Cycle 3 2017. He was also Mister BISU Calape 2019 and Mister  BISU SCUAA 2019.

 

Jack Green, 17, from Loon town, said that the extended lockdown he cannot help it not to be concerned about our surroundings.

 

"I’m doing well that’s why I always start my day by praying to God and then doing the household chores like fixing the bed, cooking, cleaning the house and still ending the day with a prayer," said Jack who was 4th runner-up in Mr and Miss UB Personality 2019, 1st runner-up in Mr. Loon Campus Personality and Top 6 in Mr Teen ICM Cycle 3 2017.

 

Sean Rey Tupas admitted he gets bored for the same routine at home.

 

"I admit that sometimes it gets boring because I fell for the same routine every single day. But it's okay as long as I'm breathing, then it's fine with me. The fact is, I know everyone of us gets bored due to this pandemic but what I mean is we just have to stay positive, stay safe and follow what the government tells us to do," said the 20-year-old Mr. UB Personality 2018.

 

John Anthony Migallon, 18, said the lockdown gives him more time with his family.

 

"Since lockdown, I did learn a lot of things by simply taking my time more useful specially in surfing the internet and exploring social media. I just spend a lot of time with my family," said John who became 2nd runner-up in Mr Teen ICM Cycle 4 2019.

 

Aside from your barber, what do you miss most about the “outside” world?
Arnel: The most thing that I miss in the outside world is playing basketball because  I like to play basketball the most and it gives enjoyment and happiness to me. And if I can't play basketball my day is not complete.
Jack: I miss hanging out with my friends and co- models and enjoying life like how it used to be.
Sean: Everything! I miss how normal it was before.
John:  A lot of things!  But for me, what I've missed the most is traveling. I am this kind of person that I wanted to travel anywhere and anytime even I don't have intentions on where to go. I just want to meet a lot of people and seeing a lot of beautiful places.

 

How do you protect yourself from COVID-19?
Arnel: I protect myself by always washing my hands and put disinfectant regularly. Every time I go outside I used to wear face mask and If I'm back home I wash my hands before I touch every part of my face and body.

Jack:  I protect myself from COVID-19 by staying at home as much as I can, washing my hands often, and following the directions of our local health authority. It’s really necessary for us to keep our hands clean all the time, keeping a safe distance and wearing mask every time we go outside.

Sean: Aside from wearing a face mask, washing my hands, observe social distancing, follow everything what the government says etc, I also make sure that I'm physically fit that's why I do my home workout everyday and balance my diet. And I also haven't go outside our house yet starting the very first day of quarantine. I don't even know how the outside world looks like.

John: We always make this as a habit to disinfect ourselves and as well the things that we brought from the outside. Since three of my siblings are nurses,  they always taught us on how to be responsible of everything, from ourselves and also when entering our house. I always take my vitamins...and I drink a lot of water to stay hydrated.

 

How do you envision post-COVID life?
Arnel: I see bad because it stops us on what we usually do but in the good side is it teaches to be more responsible and always observe cleanliness in our body. And I believe is the most important--to stay at home and spend some time with our family.

Jack: For a typical Filipino, it would be challenging since it's the time to make up for all the losses brought by the crisis. But eventually, we are strong, God-centered individuals who live by faith that God would always provide. Eventually, we can get through it.

Sean: Like they say, this is now the "New Normal". I'll be expecting that some people might be struggling because we're not used to this situation. Some people have lost their jobs due to COVID-19 so it means they don't have money and if they don't have money, then they don’t have something to eat or to sustain their needs. But there many ways to solve that problem. Like for instance, if we don't have something to eat because we don't have money, we can also do alternatives like planting and harvesting and more. I'll be expecting that it's not that fun and enjoyable as it was before. As many of us shelter in place with no end in sight, all we can do is to imagine how life will resume, even if the unfamiliar and unpredictable behavior of the virus has made it difficult to know with any certainty. What matter the most is to make sure that we're safe, we survive, have faith in God and keep moving forward.

John: For me, we really don't know what life is. Like I mean, we don't know the future world or future generation. But for me it will serve as a memory that the next generation will be more fighter and more knowledgeable if only if this pandemic would happen again.

 

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