CASE STUDY

A.Y. 2019-2020

Thesis

Presented to the Faculty of

College of Business Education

Lyceum-Northwestern University

Dagupan City

In Partial Fulfillment

Of the Requirements for the Degree

Bachelor of Science in Accountancy

By

Gene Kate G. Fernandez

Adrian Paul Paragas

May 2019
 CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has created a

worldwide health crisis that has impacted almost everyone. The world has

experienced a prolonged period of disruption and uncertainty causing people

to experience anxiety, depression, paranoia, panic and many more. Three

months ago, no one would have thought that a pandemic this big would make

huge shifts in way of everyone’s lives, that it will go into a standstill. As the

number of confirmed cases for COVID-19 cases continues to rise, most

workplaces and shops had to be closed and eating in restaurants and fast

food chains were not allowed. Schools had to shut down, mass gatherings

had to be prohibited and sports leagues have been cancelled. Only the

essentials were authorised to be open. People staying at home became

responsible citizens and those who were forced to go to work or make a living

were deemed irresponsible for breaking the law. In just a matter of months or

even days, things were reversed. People started working from home, front

liners could not go back home to their families and some even lost their jobs.

COVID-19 is the infectious disease caused by the most recently

discovered coronavirus. This new virus and disease were unknown before the

outbreak began in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. It was believed that it

started in the “wet market” in Wuhan which sold both dead and live animals

which heightened the risk of humans being infected by animals as the hygiene

standards were difficult to maintain and they are also densely packed

allowing the disease to spread faster. Other various crazy conspiracy theories

that have been circulating is that it originated from a lab in China either by
accident or purposely. However, studies from scientists believes that the

genetic code were linked to bats. Scientists in China believe that COVID-19

had mutated into two strains which could make the development of a vaccine

even more complicated.

Nobody expected a pandemic like this would have grave repercussions

hence, being complacent at first. COVID-19 is a pandemic that has now

spread to all corners of the globe. The Coronaviruses are a family of viruses

that cause disease in animals and it is closely related to severe acute

respiratory syndrome (SARS) which swept around the world around 2002 to

2003. Another coronavirus is Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS),

cases of which have been occurring sporadically since it first emerged in

2012. However, Covid-19 is unlike these two other coronaviruses in that

spectrum of disease as around 80 per cent of cases only leads to a mild

infection and there may even be carriers displaying no symptoms which

makes it even harder to control compared to the other two. Around 20 per

cent of the Covid-19 cases have been classified as severe and the current

death rate varies between 0.7 per cent to 3.4 percent depending on the

location and the access to good hospital care.

The coronavirus is being spread just like the cold and flu bugs via

droplets when a person sneezes, coughs and droplets. The droplets would

then land on surfaces and could transmit when it is being picked up by hands

of others and they catch it when they touch their infected hands to their

mouth, eyes or nose. The initial symptoms of coronavirus include fever, dry

cough, fatigue, shortness of breath, headache, nasal congestion, runny nose

and the general feeling of being unwell. There were other symptoms that had
emerged such as lost of taste and smell and diarrhoea. Some people become

infected but they are asymptomatic for a few days or if they are lucky, don’t

feel unwell. However, people with more severe forms of the disease will take

longer to recover. Some could be hospitalised for more than two weeks while

the average is 10 days. Symptoms could appear between two to ten days

after contracting the virus but it may be up to 24 days. Most people around 80

per cent recover from the disease without needing special treatment but

around 20 per cent becomes seriously ill. Older people and those with

underlying medical problems like heart problems, high blood, diabetes,

asthmatics, cancers and etc are more prone to develop serious illness. That’s

why those who are more prone to become seriously ill should be more careful.

The important thing to do to protect one’s self is by keeping the hands

clean by frequently washing them with soap and water or a hand sanitiser.

Regular hand washing is the most important precaution to reduce the chances

of contamination from the virus lingering on surface. If sick, one must always

cover with tissue when sneezing or coughing then throwing it away and

washing hands. Those with travel history must undergo a 14-day home

quarantine and then self-monitor their health condition to limit the spread of

the virus. Social distancing has also been implemented, meaning, one should

maintain a distance between other people at least six feet apart and the

reduction in the number of contacts with others. Hence, why the Philippine

government decided to do a lockdown as this strategy saved thousands of

lives both during the Spanish Flu pandemic of 1918 and recently in Mexico

City during the 2009 flu pandemic.

 With millions of cases being confirmed, lots of health care system are

being overwhelmed and strained. Hospitals are now having the inability to

accommodate the massive numbers of patients affected. There are also a

growing number of medical staffs and professionals being infected by the lack

of protective equipment, such as masks, face shields and gowns, because of

this, government finds it hard to provide enough healthcare workers as a lot of

them are in quarantine or unfortunately, deceased. Another issue that the

health services are facing is the inability to accommodate beds for those who

are critically ill and the lack of ventilators for those who finds it hard to

breathe. The government has received backlash from the mass for the lack of

testing kits supplied and the slow results.

The impact of coronavirus on ordinary people’s lives has been drastic.

These dramatic changes had been a shock to all and many were left

unprepared and staggered, not knowing how life will go on for the next few

months or worst, years. Millions had lost their jobs and the unemployment rate

has gone up, many were forced to work from home and the daily income

earners like the tricycle drivers and store owners are now jobless. Many were

left aghast and unsure how they will make up for their daily income as it will

be a major challenge providing the basic needs like food especially if one is a

provider for their family. Acquiring foods in the market and stores had also

been strained as only one person in the household is allowed to go out and

were required to have a pass or permit when going out. Also, only a few

stores were open so as to avoid crowding and to allow to have a safe

distancing. Wearing of masks outside were mandatory or they’ll get caught.

 The early days of the Covid-19 pandemic was hard on everyone, in

different ways. People had to isolate themselves whilst being forced to deal

with their own intrusive thoughts that could be upsetting and cause anxiety.

Hearing news of rising number of cases and the countless deaths and sad

stories people see on social media and news is enough to feel devasted.

Some common mental effects are feeling agitated, more stressed, more

restless, and more sleepless due to pandemic-induced anxiety and

depression.

The COVID-19 pandemic may have caused or intensified people’s

psychological disorders like depression, anxiety, paranoia, panic, alcoholism

and many more. People underwent emotional stress especially with

everything that has been happening all over the world. Without knowing who

could have caught the virus, there had been anxiety, tension and trust issues

towards each other. They are afraid to go out of their houses and if ever they

do, they will probably get caught by the barangay officials if they do not have

a permit. Also, previous studies showed that fear associates with anxiety and

depression. The adjustment to the new normal like, social distancing, has

affected a lot of people emotionally. Some might feel alone, especially if they

are far from their family, others might feel stuck and do not know how to move

forward because they are not used to the measures implemented. With the

unemployment rate going up, many people find themselves jobless and no

income, hence, causing them a downward spiral. Front liners are most

especially affected mentally as they have to show bravery in the face of this

gruesome pandemic. They get to see the horrific scene in the hospital and
what this disease could do to people, putting themselves in danger just to be

able to treat the affected. Undergoing such stress is indeed unfathomable.

How the pandemic affected us all psychologically might defer from

others. Some are glad that they get to spend more time with their loved ones,

many are frightened with the radical changes that we now call “The New

Normal”.

My experience with this pandemic has been quite different. My mother

was supposed to go back to the Philippines the following week however, after

learning about the lockdown in Metro Manila, she had a feeling that the whole

of Luzon will also be under quarantine hence, the reason she quickly booked

another ticket to go back to the Philippines to fetch my brothers to Singapore

where we grew up in. It was also then, when Mayor Brian Lim announced that

schools will be suspended for a month that my parents realized I should

probably go too as they will be at ease knowing we are all together. Booking a

flight was another problem we faced as all of the airlines were having

problems in their website. Flights were being cancelled or it was fully booked

as other OFWs were trying to get back to the countries they work in before

they get stuck in Manila. I remember vividly, early Sunday at around three in

the morning, my mom woke me up saying she managed to book me and my

brothers a ticket. Quickly, with just backpacks on, we travelled to Manila but

because of the agonizing traffic there, we were not able be in the airport on

time. Although it was risky and treacherous, and not knowing that the virus will

blow up like this, we still went inside the airport to see if we could make it but

unfortunately, the check in counters were closed. That was when I became

aware of my surroundings, everybody was wearing masks and some even

had protective gowns and face shields on. There were a lot of foreigners

trying to flee the country before flights were being cancelled. Despite just

missing our plane, we tried booking other flights as my mom was determined

in bringing us back and finally after a whole agonizing day in the airport, we

managed to land a flight. Being inside the airport gave us anxiety as it was

very crowded, there was no social distancing and not knowing who could

possibly be carrying the virus. We made sure that after touching things in the

airport, we would sanitize.

When we landed in Singapore Changi Airport, the scenario was the

complete opposite compared to NAIA airport. There were very few wearing

face masks even the immigration officers were not wearing one. There was

safe distancing and felt like everything was still completely normal. The

confirmed cases were only a hundred plus and everybody looked calm.

However, since we travelled, we had to do our part and go for a fourteen-day

quarantine. My mom also needed to undergo the quarantine, mandated by

her company as she works as a nurse in a nursing home and her phone was

being tracked by the Ministry of Health. Seeing that we all had to adhere to

the stay home notice, my Dad, who did not travel with us was the only one

allowed to go out and do the grocery. He too, like my mom, works as a nurse

but for the Juvenile Detention Centre.

Staying at home seems like such an easy job to do, but for us, it was

emotionally stressful, worrying day by day if any symptoms would show up.

Eating healthy became an obligation for the body to strengthen and to have a

good immune system. Social Media became such a toxic and spiteful place to

be as the only posts we had been seeing were negative. We were not seeing
any hopeful news about the virus slowing down. The situation even in the

Philippines was not getting any better, not knowing what can happen

especially because we knew we had to get back sooner or later. For all of

these reasons, I realized that I had an anxiety disorder as sometimes I find

myself overthinking about the future and what lies ahead which makes it

difficult for me to breathe, concentrate and to do the things I used to love

before, and I even developed gastroesophageal reflux disease(GERD) which I

did confirm with a doctor. It was torment and I was indeed grateful that my

family was with me while having issues like these.

After our fourteen-day quarantine, we were allowed to finally go out and

was able to loosen up. Going out in the public comforted me in some ways,

knowing that I was not the only one. My friends too were able to improve my

mood and restore a sense of physical well-being. At trying times like these, it

was very admirable knowing that some people are willing to stick by you even

at your worst. However, a week later, the Prime Minister of Singapore

announced that there will be a circuit breaker similar to a partial lockdown

after reaching the one thousand COVID-19 case. Meaning, malls and schools

had to close and only the essentials like supermarkets were allowed to open.

Many workers had to work from home and majority of the flights had to be

cancelled. My parents nonetheless still had to work as they were considered

front liners although they were not directly handling the Covid patients. I am

thankful still. Circumstances like these makes you value all the things we used

to take for granted like having a good health, complete family and meals three

times a day. Often times, with how fast the world revolves, money, fame and

wants gets valued more and we are blind sighted about what is really
important. I also took this time to start doing my hobbies that I never got to do

before I got busy with school and what I want to do with my future since it was

something that I was sceptical about. Taking even more care of my health

became normal like exercising, doing yoga and sometimes meditation, and

being mindful of the things that we eat.

After almost a month of the partial lockdown, the number of cases in

Singapore kept going up and is now Southeast Asia’s most coronavirus

cases. The majority of the cases detected were from the foreign worker

dormitories which houses construction workers from countries like

Bangladesh. Community transmission however only had about 10-20 cases.

Seeing a rise in the number of infections, and nursing homes being invaded

by the virus, my mom was required to test for COVID-19 and to our relief, she

tested negative. But as a staff nurse with a higher ranking and trained for

swab tests, she was the only one allowed to do the test in the whole branch

and so far, no one has tested positive. All of her colleagues and work mates

were required to stay at a hotel and were only allowed to take taxi to work but

when the company learned that my mom had a seven year old son living with

her, they exempted her from staying in the hotel but certain rules like she is

only allowed to go outside for work. As for my Dad, he is still admitting

juveniles and makes sure that they are all well. Whenever my parents come

home from work, I feel thankful that we are all well and together.

As for me, Adrian Paragas, my experience with this pandemic has

impacted our family but not as awful like the others. My father, who is a public

teacher still gets paid despite the fact that his work has stopped. Even so, he

still prepared for the worst-case scenario. We all know that the vaccine for
covid19 has not been discovered yet. This could go on for days, weeks,

months or even years. So, my father resorted on making our own backyard

vegetable garden. My family and I started cultivating vegetables like pumpkin,

tomatoes and many more leafy greens. We even got into poultry, taking care

of chickens and getting eggs from them. I spent my time a lot trying to grow

vegetables so that I could still be productive even though we were stuck at

home. This gives us access to free food for the following months, it is a pretty

great advantage against the horrors of covid19. The less we go to the market,

the less likely we are to catch the virus and that helps us feel comfortable

during this pandemic. This is also a great example of how one can be

strategic enough, when worst comes to worst that the market could not be

able to open for the public, that we can still have foods served on our table as

it will be easily available for us in the backyard.

As for the emotional impact, I have definitely felt anxiety as I do not

know what the future holds. It is undeniable that the pandemic have an impact

on our mental health, worrying about our family, friends, and those around us.

Being stuck at home made me realize what I have taken for granted the time

when we were all free to go out and be with our friends. Now, I am not quite

sure when I will be able to meet them again without worrying if we have

contracted the virus. Fear and uncertainty have taken a toll on all of us. My

family and I are just glad that we could quarantine together, unlike some who

are far away from their loved ones. My family and I are pretty much positive

thinkers and we are hoping that the situation will get better in the future where

everyone could get together again and have celebrations.

 RELATED LITRATURE

The Novel Coronavirus also known as COVID-19 Pandemic outbreak

has taken thousands of lives in late 2019 up to the present. Hence, before this

pandemic occurred, there are numbers of other diseases with having millions

of death tolls according to MPH Online. The following are few of the biggest

pandemics recorded in the past.

Firstly, the Third Cholera Pandemic which occurred from 1852 to 1860

that has tolled over a million of lives. It is generally considered the most

deadly of the seven cholera pandemics. Like the first and second pandemics,

the Third Cholera Pandemic originated in India, spreading from the Ganges

River Delta before tearing through Asia, Europe, North America and Africa.

British physician John Snow, while working in a poor area of London, tracked

cases of cholera and eventually succeeded in identifying contaminated water

as the means of transmission for the disease. Unfortunately, the same year as

his discovery (1854) went down as the worst year of the pandemic, in which

23,000 people died in Great Britain. Secondly, the Asian Flu which occurred

from 1956 to 1958 that has tolled 2 million of lives. Asian Flu was a pandemic

outbreak of Influenza A of the H2N2 subtype, that originated in China in 1956

and lasted until 1958. In its two-year spree, Asian Flu travelled from the

Chinese province of Guizhou to Singapore, Hong Kong, and the United

States. Estimates for the death toll of the Asian Flu vary depending on the

source, but the World Health Organization places the final tally at
approximately 2 million deaths, 69,800 of those in the US alone. Lastly, The

Black Death which was occurred from 1346 to 1353 with an estimated death

toll between 75 to 200 million of lives. This pandemic was caused by Bubonic

Plague and spread all over Europe, Africa, and Asia. Thought to have

originated in Asia, the Plague most likely jumped continents via the fleas living

on the rats that so frequently lived aboard merchant ships. Ports being major

urban centers at the time, were the perfect breeding ground for the rats and

fleas, and thus the insidious bacterium flourished, devastating three

continents in its wake.

Pragmatically speaking, the pandemic occurring in the present was not

a far-fetched idea—in part, because it has already happened multiple times

before.

GENERAL OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this case report is to provide information about the

recent COVID-19 pandemic and how a typical house hould has been affected

during the crisis.

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES

To be able to learn how a typical household has been impacted

psychologically and know more about their experiences. Also, to differentiate

how people had been affected.

 CHAPTER 2

METHODOLOGY

This chapter described how the case report undertook. This consisted

of research design, locale of the study, sampling design, as well as the

research methods, description of how data was gathered and its procedures

and the treatment of data.

Research Design

This case report is an in-depth study of a particular research problem

rather than a statistical survey. It is being used to narrow down an extensive

field of research into an easily researchable examples. This design is very

useful when not much is known about a certain phenomenon or in this case

report, how the COVID-19 will unfold in the coming months or years. The

design is naturalistic, meaning it refers to studying real-world situations as

they unfold naturally. It is also non-manipulative and non-controlling and there

is a lack of predetermined constraints on the findings or experiences. This

case report is about the researchers’ family circumstances in this pandemic

and how it has affected them emotionally and psychologically.

Sources of Data

In this research, the proponents used both primary and secondary

data. Primary as it was about the raw information, experiences and opinions

of the researchers and family members who are quarantined with them
namely, Mr and Mrs Fernandez, Mr Gene Kyle Fernandez, Mrs Jodhea Guiao

and Mrs Noemi Manlongat whom reside in Tampines, Singapore. The

following family, Mr and Mrs Paragas, and Mr Jeremy Paul Paragas were also

involved in the case report and are residing in Malasiqui, Pangasinan. They

were interviewed personally by the researchers. The study also used

secondary because facts taken were mostly from reports, the internet, articles

and observations. The facts taken from reports were recent and also came

from the researcher’s judgment.

Instrumentation and Data Collection

The researchers used qualitative research for the case report as the

study came from real experiences that was delved deeper into the events that

had happened and how it had affected them mentally. The proponents

interviewed their family members on how it has affected them, and what are

their experiences about the pandemic. For instance, statement from their

family members describing their situations or issues pertaining to their mental

health and their initial reactions about the unfolding events. The researchers

also used information from the internet which are trusted websites and also,

from the news in the television about the widespread Corona Virus. The facts

taken about the COVID-19 situations and the incidents about it were all true

and were taken from news articles and websites that are trustworthy.
 RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

The case report from the researcher’s experience is just another story

and experience from a normal household during the COVID-19 pandemic. In

this chapter, it delved deeper on how the researchers’ family members felt

about the ongoing pandemic and how it made changes in their life and the

way they perceive the world now. This study shows how a typical family and

individuals, in some way, had adapted to the new normal and how they dealt

with it emotionally.

The coronavirus is indeed impacting everyone and is progressively still

doing so. For a number of families, it could mean making big changes in

everyday routines due to financial hardships while for others, they have to

sacrifice not seeing their loved ones due to the nature of their work. Students

were also not able to attend online class face to face, which could lead to

problems in their studies. It could raise anxiety in children and parents, and

generally fear no matter where they stand because the lingering thought of

being exposed to the virus and possibly infecting the rest of the household is

enough to trouble one’s mind. Every individual has a unique experience or

situation and it all depends on a person on how they want to deal with it. The

“new normal” can be challenging but it is also up to everyone to come to

terms with it despite each other’s own afflictions.

 The proponents interviewed their family members who are living and

quarantining with them. The Fernandez Family and Paragas Family in

particular order. Mr Nereo Fernandez stated, “The happenings really affected

almost everybody in some way emotionally, even me. I cannot help but be

anxious about our family members all around the world because this is a

pandemic that affects us all.” he even expressed his uneasiness with the

condition of his mother who is a senior citizen aged, 84 years old who also

tends to get sick easily and was worried about her condition. He further

elaborated, “as a nurse who takes care of others and does swab tests, I have

to have a strong state of mind and be optimistic or else, fear will eat you out

alive”. Mrs Gellian Fernandez said, “I was very distressed when I realized

there is a growing case in the Philippines so I had to pick my children up as

soon as possible because I had a gut feeling that the virus is going to stay for

a long time and I am not sure when I could see my children again. It is indeed

a relief when my family all got together but because I work as a frontliner, I

had to be extra cautious so as not to endanger my family’s health. It is also

not my first time handling a situation like this, back in 2003-2004 I had been

exposed to patients with the much deadlier SARS and I had colleagues who

unfortunately passed away at a young age. I have to act tough and steadfast

because these things, I believe are just trials that we need to overcome and is

here for a reason. That is why I always remind my children to pray to our Lord

God’s protection and always trust in him.”

Kyle, who is the proponent’s brother stated, “I am a first year high school

student at Northfield Academy in Dagupan City and when school was

cancelled, I felt relief at first because I could relax for a bit. But when they said
that the pandemic is going to take a long time, I realized that I took my

freedom of going out and being with friends for granted, and I just wanted the

good old days back. Suddenly, we are all isolated and going out is a luxury. I

am not alone during quarantine, but I felt lonely because I just started to get

along with my new friends and I quite miss being around kids my age”. He

further stated, “Also having parents who are both nurses is very distressful

because their job now is not going to be that easy and we were always on

edge because government expects them to stay in a hotel away from us for at

least a month to avoid catching the sickness by any of us and vice versa. I do

not know what will happen in the future, but I do hope that by the next few

years, everything will be back to normal and it is going to take adjustments

again.”

The next person interviewed is a cousin of the proponent, Mrs Jodhea

Guiao. She stated, “Working in the F&B industry was hard because we were

dealing with different customers every day and at first, we were not allowed to

wear mask at all because they advised us that only those who felt sick could

only wear face mask. But when the case started to rise, restaurants had to

close down and many OFWs were losing their jobs which forces them to leave

the country. I am lucky enough to be a marketer which is exactly what the

company needs to keep in touch with the customers and promote the

business especially when the sales are low.” Mrs Guiao also found out that

she was conceiving in the middle of the pandemic and as someone who was

diagnosed with anxiety disorder, it was indeed not easy, she further

elaborated, “My pregnancy was unexpected but I am so grateful for the

blessing I have received. Fortunately, my employers were kind enough to

allow me to work from home. Even if the world is on chaos, the people around

me made sure that I was well taken care of and was advised that I should not

overthink things too much so that I would not get anxiety attacks like before. I

started doing things that made me happy, even in the smallest ways and

minimize my watching of the news altogether. I am indeed fortunate to have

people who care about my well-being quarantined with me.”

Mrs Noemi Meneses, the last person interviewed in the household

living with the Fernandez Family stated, “As the auntie of the children, and

their caregiver, I had to go with them in Singapore which meant that I also

have to leave my family behind. It is kind of lonely for me because I am not

with my family and seeing the posts of some of my friends being quarantined

with their family members and spending quality time together in social media,

not going to lie, made me sad. Even though I enjoy the company of my

relatives here in Singapore, I cannot help but miss my own. I missed my son’s

graduation in college and my husband and I’s silver wedding anniversary.

Missing out on these once in a lifetime celebrations makes me and my family

in a melancholic mood but I have to remind my children that we should be

glad for the adversities as this will only make our faith in God stronger.”

The proponent, Mr Adrian Paul Paragas’ family, was also interviewed.

Mr Christopher Paragas, father of Mr Adrian, said, “I am a teacher and when

classes got cancelled, naturally I also did not have to work. Luckily for my

case, the government did not abandon us and still continued to give us our

salary every month and because of that, I can still provide for my children.

Knowing about the dangers of the corona virus, I had to be smart about it and

not let my emotions get the best of me so I decided to start growing our own
food in our backyard and also started to take care of chickens. I think it is a

good idea because it means that we do not have to always go to the market

and risk my family from getting exposed from the virus. Also, farming is really

good for the mind and very refreshing. Keeping your hands full instead of

always watching the news or doing nothing, does not really allow you to

overthink and have negative thoughts. However, we are just human beings

full of emotion so you cannot help but worry sometimes and be alarmed with

what is happening with the world. But I like to stay positive and keep in mind

that it is not always going to be this way and there is better days ahead.”

Lastly, the propenent’s brother, Mr Jeremy Paul Paragas stated, “My

family and I are close knit so when we learned that we have to be quarantined

together, we had no problem with it. Being the eldest and the who goes out of

the house to work, I have to be more careful and cautious so I could protect

my family from being exposed to the virus. There were certain times when it

became hard because of the many restrictions and worrying about the safety

of my family so I felt more restless and stressed but I have to keep in mind

that I have obligations to do and to stay strong. Even in times of hardships, I

have to learn how to be strong and to just keep going.”

Indeed, the pandemic has affected everyone differently but at the same

time, all the same as it had one way or another made us uneasy about what is

to come in the future and worrying that we could catch the disease and

endanger our loved ones. There are so many possible ways that could affect

a person. For example, students, frontliners and even just a typical family

quarantined together holds different kinds of story.

 A survey conducted by UNICEF said that 8 in 10 youth are affecting

their mental health due to the pandemic. That they were deeply worried that it

would affect their household income as their parents may not be able to work

regularly or worst, loose their job. Another uncertainty is continuing their

studies, exams and future education, and being stressed out about not being

able to leave their homes. Online classes has also been a problem to some

as not all has internet at home or has bad internet connection in rural areas

and because of this, it could be an obstacle for students. Not all has access to

modern technology like laptops for proper learning. The disruption of their

studies has caused interruptions in their learning especially for the graduating

students as it will be a challenge to submit requirements. Graduations too,

has to be cancelled which vexes the students as this kind of celebrations is

only once in a lifetime. To finally celebrate all the hardships they had been

through in college life and most especially, to show their parents or guardians

that they had made it and are ready for the next step in their life. On-the-job

trainings has to be cancelled as well to make sure the well-being of students.

Not having the right training that students should have, they might struggle

when they go into the workforce as they did not have enough experience.

Clearly, COVID-19 pandemic has far reaching negative effects on

mental health than the threat of the virus itself. Only a few weeks since the

crisis began, some families has already been struggling to cope as they do

not have enough money to put food on the table for their children.

Government financial aid is mostly important for families that is vulnerable and

needs support. With the help of the LGUs providing relief goods, it really is a

big help for families that needs financial assistance. However, since the
lockdown has been prolonged, dozens of people started causing riots to

demand more food and relief supplies. It has reflected the frustration of the

poor with how the government has been handling the crisis. The spontaneous

explosion of vexation by the people just shows how much they are struggling

with the situation and everyone is battling the effects of that came with the

virus.

The pandemic has also, mostly affected the frontliners. Some of them

can not even go back home to their families in fear that they could get infected

as well therefore forced to stay at work. Even the World Health Organization

were alarmed by the high number of healthcare workers in the Philippines that

were infected with COVID-19. This is nudge that proper protective gear for

frontliners are important. WHO-Western Pacific Region COVID-19 Incident

manager Dr. Abdi Mahamud even said that the healthcare workers infected

with the viral disease is higher than the average in the region which has 37

member states including that of China, the epicentre of the disease.

Philippines has 13 percent infections that were medical workers whilst the

other region only has 2-3 percent. Dr Mahamud also said that the high

infection rate could either be because of shortage of personal protective gear

or the improper use of it. That is why it is important that frontliners are well

trained and extra cautious.

 CONCLUSION

The conclusions of the researchers include the effects of the pandemic

to different households and how it has affected their mental health and what

has been learned during this report.

No one would have imagined a year ago that something this big would

blow up and change the life of many for no one knows how long. Families had

their own way of coping up, each in different circumstances. Some could be

worrying about how will they be able to provide foods for their family, some

could have a family member that is a frontliner and is concerned for their

health, while there are families comfortably living and worst, a someone in

their family could have been infected. With all the different situations we are

all in, it is important to sympathise with each other and spread positivity as

much as possible during difficult times. Everybody has their own way of

coping up in this stressful period. Whether by doing their hobbies like cooking,

painting, reading ,watching their favourite shows or just by spending quality

time with family. It is important to take care of one’s mental health and know

their limit when it comes to watching news as this could cause anxiety to

some. It is also important to provide emotional support to those needing it

most.

From the case report, we could learn that because of the pandemic,

there have been great changes in everybody’s daily life and way of living.

There were many things that everyone used to do before, but can now no

longer do such as going out freely and not worrying about getting exposed

with sickness, getting to socialize with lots of people and basically just doing

things face to face with others and being carefree. But now, such situations

has made others sad and caused them to be discouraged or depressed

because of the seemingly uncertain future that awaits them. We could also

learn that everyone seems to be worried in some way even though they are in

different situations. The pandemic caused everyone anxiety and cannot help

but sympathise for the others who had contracted the virus and worst, those

who lost their battle and in the back of their mind, wishing to never share the

same fate the others did. We could also learn that even in different countries,

everyone is going through the same thing may it be, lockdown or in some

countries, calling it different names for it like ‘circuit breaker’. Public health

actions such as social distancing can make us feel isolated and lonely. A lot of

people are locked in their own homes and sadly, also left alone with their

intrusive thoughts that could increase stress and anxiety. From the interviews

gathered by the proponents, it could be seen that in some way, there was an

emotional impact on all of them.

 People’s feelings is indeed a complex thing especially in the middle of

a pandemic, but something that was learnt from this case report was how we

worry about people we care about and at the same time, leaning towards

them for strength. Being surrounded by people cares about your wellbeing

can really help a person and whatever challenges they are facing.

The effect the pandemic has on people can have drastic negative

effects on their mental health. Some of these reasons could be about their

loss of income, closures of school, and the overall changes in the economy.

Experts say that the world “will never be the same again” and people will be

more cautious about their surroundings. It has also been agreed that while

COVID-19 is here to stay, lockdowns are simply unsustainable in the long run,

the only way to continue our lives is to embrace a new way of life. Many will

start to be more hygienic and be health conscious. People will be more aware

of keeping clean and the right etiquette when sneezing or coughing especially

since good hygiene is one of the most effective ways to protect ourselves and

others from illnesses. People will also now be more appreciative of what truly

matters like having good health, a complete family and a food to put on the

table because at the end of the day, the fancy things are not going to save

anyone from a pandemic like this. Many as well started being more informed

and aware of the situation and could be better prepared when a pandemic like

this would strike again.

Despite the many tragic effects COVID-19 has, one particular has been

benefitting from the global lockdowns and the standstill of economy. The air

quality has been improving and Earth has been healing itself. The worldwide

slowdown in human activity has had a number of positive effects on the

environment, including decreased air pollution. This has been due to less

carbon-guzzling planes in the sky and less fuel-burning cars on the road.

Even canals and rivers had been clearing itself welcoming swans, fish and

seabirds. Animals has also been reclaiming land, flocking in the deserted

streets and freely exploring. Earth’s air pollutants has drastically reduced

globally and studies published in the journal Geophysical Research Letters

found that nitrogen dioxide pollution over northern China, Western Europe,

the US and many more has decreased by as much as sixty per cent in early

2020s as compared to last year due to the recent lockdowns. However,

researchers noted that the improvements in air quality could be temporary if

the way of life will before the pandemic will not change.

RECOMMENDATION

The researchers would like to suggest the following to help cope with

negative thoughts during difficult periods like the pandemic.

Coping up with a pandemic no one had been prepared for is difficult.

Many are facing challenges that is overwhelming and can cause feelings

related to stress like, fear, anger, sadness, numbness, worry, and many more.

Some lose their energy, interests, and no longer feeling happiness of what

was once their hobby. There are so many more things that could affect a

person due to the anxieties they had been feeling.

However, life must go on and we should adapt to the new normal.

Healthy ways in coping up with these negative emotions could be taking a

break from reading and watching news on the television, news articles on the

internet, newspapers, and even scrolling through social media as constantly

hearing about the pandemic on social media could be upsetting and cause

uneasiness. Instead of always being on our phones and listening to news, we

could try connecting with other people and check up on them as well because

they too, are going through some things we do not know of. Converse with

them about how the pandemic has affected you and you might be surprise at

how they might be going through the same, emotionally. Spend some quality

time with family if quarantined together as this can also build better

relationships and make time with each other. We were so often busy with

work, school, social events, and with our gadgets that we forgot to spend

meaningful time together. Helping each other cope with stress can help you

and your loved ones feel less isolated and lonely.

Taking care of your body is also a great way to boost up your energy.

Exercising regularly, and eating a healthy and well balanced meal will not only

keep you healthy, but also feel good about yourself and boost a person’s

mood and provide them with more energy. When our immune system have to

fight back on certain sicknesses, good nutrition is crucial for our health.

Staying hydrated at all times is crucial for optimal health and we should limit

ourselves from unhealthy foods. Having a healthier lifestyle will keep you

away from any sicknesses, your body can fight better with viral sickness and it

is also known to improve brain-related functions. As for these reasons,

leading a nourishing and stimulating lifestyle can only not help us fight back

from sicknesses, but also boost up our mood.

Some things to always be prepared for during pandemics so as to

avoid distress. Calmness for one, is important and not panic. Preparing for

any kinds of disruption in services like the internet, lockdown, closing of the
markets or worst, losing your job. Thinking of different strategies on how to

make a living despite the challenges. Meaning, a household should always

have emergency funds and be at least two steps ahead for better

preparedness. Stocking up early means one can be ready and have what you

need should a pandemic occur, and will be less likely to have to leave the

house for supplies, potentially exposing to the virus. Other people could also

start doing online businesses to increase income. Businesses like selling of

preloved clothes, baking and all sorts of other stuffs. Some could even start

selling foods outside of their house. During pandemics like this, one should

always have the ability to be resourceful especially if they are not allowed to

go to work. Experts suggests that one should stock up on two weeks of

preserved foods like canned foods, snacks and foods full of protein and carbs.

Growing of own vegetables and foods is also a good idea so you would not

have to worry about getting low on food supplies and not having to go to the

market all the time and lessen exposure to the virus. Make sure that any

essential prescription drugs, face masks and first aid kit are stocked up. Also,

if you have more than enough supplies, instead of watching these rot and go

to waste, share it with people who needs it more. Sharing your blessings is

indeed gratifying and it may seem little but those who needs it will be

delighted and appreciative. Also, most importantly is to practise prevention

now. Washing of hands for at least 20 seconds whenever you come back

from any public places, staying at home when sick and cover mouth and nose

when sneezing.

Some people have to spend quarantine with themselves and are often

being left alone with their own thoughts that it gets unbearable. Time
management and productivity is important during these times as it could get

lonely and make one feel as though their time is being wasted. Plan your day

or week ahead and at the same time, get productive. Put the important tasks

first on the list so that you could set a clear path for other recreational

activities. Planning can also help prepare for any unexpected problems as it is

part of the planning process, creating a contingency plan. Having plan

strategies will clearly help you illustrate whether you are staying on schedule

or if you have missed works and therefore, not having to worry about the

major tasks later in the day. This will enable you to finally allow you to do

some of your hobbies like, baking, gardening, reading, or whatever that

makes you feel at ease. Maintaining a good balance between work and play

is critical especially during times like this as planning can greatly reduce

stress quotient and gives you the peace of mind knowing that your goals are

attainable and you are ready to tackle the week ahead.

No matter how we try to stay prepared about the challenges ahead, we

are just humans. When we are overburdened with life’s troubles and trials, we

should not bear them alone. We are living in a period where there is chaos

and anxieties. Covid 19 is indeed a test of faith. Hence, when distressed, we

can always call unto God. Even as we are confined in our own homes, we

should not let it hinder us from serving our Lord God. We should never forget

to pray to him and confide all our problems. When feeling sad because of the

stress and the pressures, we should remember that we are never alone.

Meditating on Gods words can ease our anxieties and stress. It is the

Christian practice of meditation, it is thinking on God’s phrase, or command

and reflecting on it with faith and love. We should always trust God during
difficult periods and try to see the good. In all the chaos and fear, we should

remember that God is always with us, close to our hearts.

APPENDIX A

(CURRICULUM VITAE)

PERSONAL INFORMATION

Name: Gene Kate G. Fernandez

Place of Birth: Dagupan City, Pangasinan

Birthday: August 19,1998

Religion: Iglesia Ni Cristo

Address: Lasip Grande, Dagupan City, Pangasinan

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

College: Bachelor of Science in Commerce, Major in Management

Accountancy

Lyceum – Northwestern University

 Tapuac District, Dagupan City Pangasinan

SY: 2020

Secondary: Damai Secondary School

Singapore

SY: 2015

Primary: Casuarina Primary School

Singapore

SY: 2011

APPENDIX B

(CURRICULUM VITAE)

PERSONAL INFORMATION

Name: Adrian Paul Paragas

Place of Birth: Malasiqui, Pangasinan

Birthday:

Religion: Catholic

Address: Malasiqui, Pangasinan

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

College: Bachelor of Science in Commerce, Major in Management

Accountancy

Lyceum – Northwestern University

 Tapuac District, Dagupan City Pangasinan

SY: 2021

Secondary:

Primary:

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