Argosy S. Nazareno
AMIDST THE OUTBREAK
On fast-moving situations like this, the “unknowns outweigh the knowns”. When we read information on Social Media that are not confirmed by health authorities, then they are mere speculations and misinformation. It’s just disheartening to know that there are people who find it amusing to see others panic. Some People even use the situation to flex their political agendas.
Of course we can unite against the actions and inactions of our government but we must do it without politicizing. We can denounce those who handle the crisis without spreading racist ideologies and becoming Xenophobic towards any “Chinese-looking citizens”. Instead of helping each other, what people spread are more lethal than the virus: hatred and false information.
Understandably, Filipinos are worried. And it’s much better to be safe than sorry. This is true if our country struggle in maintaining its healthcare system. Some People are just worried on the capability of the Government to handle situations like this. Those “alarmists” and “fearmongers” makes the situation worse.
We should be vigilant against letting our worries twist into panic. Because panic can cloud our judgment. This makes us vulnerable to wrong information and conspiracy theories. This makes us discriminate against any person “who looks Chinese” and is wearing a mask.
Some people nag to the Government to declare a total ban on Chinese tourists. The World Health Organization (WHO) made its position clear as to avoid doing drastic measures that hamper travel and trade. They have already issued measures to avoid contamination and continue the flow of trade.
Let the authorities do their thing, while you do yours. If you ask me what to do, let’s start to trust and follow our health authorities and avoid spreading wrong information. When things are difficult for others, we should not worsen the situation for them. Instead, we show compassion to help our fellow human beings.