Fighting the Unseen:

Montalbeños in the fight against COVID-19

Hannah Grace V. de Guzman

COVID-19 existed and dominated the Montalbeños . How can we fight the unseen in this times of our
lives where we see nothing but fear?

Barangay San Jose in Montalban, Rizal is under total lockdown starting April 27 to curb the
spread of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). As of October 23, 2020, there were approximately
14.3 thousand coronavirus COVID-19 cases within Rizal in the Philippines. Of these cases, around 260
patients have died, and almost 12 thousand have recovered.

“We must never underestimate the seriousness of the situation. Wear the proper mask, always
wash your hands, observe physical distancing, and go out only when the need arises. Eat nutritious
foods, take your vitamins, and expose yourself more to sunlight - for Vitamin D. Above all, always pray
not only for your safety and of the people surrounding you but, pray for the immediate resolution of this
pandemic.” Mark Joseph Ayo, a survivor of COVID-19 on an interview.

The lockdown prevents people moving, working, planning, organising and travelling to access
resources. The order of government states that all borders and checkpoints boundary of the barangay
shall be closed and no residents will be allowed to go out of their homes except for those accessing basic
necessities such as food and medicine. But community leaders of Montalbeños found ways and
managed to coordinate with government, often through the internet and digital meetings.

At such a crucial point in our lives, we are experiencing a global crisis not just on health, but also
on many aspects of our society that the extent of its damaging repercussions might be too complex for
us to digest.

‘A year after Coronavirus’ is still an unknown, hoping that we will make the year after
coronavirus one which highlights recovery and acts as a pathway to fresh beginnings. While there is little
to gain from such a fatal cause, it is vital that we also use it to make the ‘new normal’ in favour of the
environment and ensure that no one is left behind.

We must continue to stand together forward in the fight against COVID-19. The Montalban’s
strategy to control and suppress spread, strengthen and maintain health services, and support each
other to stay safe, healthy and well, will help montalbeños to save lives and minimize impact. Our
mission is clear. Our challenge is great. Together, forward in the fight against COVID-19.