Brothers and sisters, did you hurry to buy face masks after hearing the news of the first COVID-19 death in the Philippines? It’s not surprising, since the spread of this deadly disease caused most of us to panic and rush to purchase face masks, alcohol, and other products that can protect us against said virus. During times like these, we prioritize ourselves and our families, but it’s also important for us to be aware of the welfare of our fellowmen and women exposed to this deadly virus because of their work or livelihood.
First among our fellowmen are those who collect trash to sell or trade. The increase in demand for face masks added to the rise of trash, especially because we are reminded to throw the masks away after using them for eight hours. Meanwhile, it is noticeable that these trash collectors who are seemingly immune to diseases may now be endangering their health by collecting trash, including used face masks. They have no face masks and no protective gloves of their own, which is why there is a chance that they may get sick. Aside from their lack of knowledge on how to protect themselves, they suffer discrimination because of their livelihood of collecting trash. Unfortunately, government officials who should be responsible for their safety haven’t paid them much attention.
In the formal sector, there are nurses, as well as other health-care workers who take care of patients suspected to have COVID-19. It is said that our nurses are overworked and underpaid, and this is the primary reason why many Filipino nurses choose to work in other countries. According to some data, there are around 20,000 nurses who already left the Philippines. No compensation is equal to the sacrifices these nurses have to suffer, away from their families. The government’s lack of effort to improve the welfare of our nurses was the main source of their disappointment. Currently, many of our nurses earn even less than the minimum wage. Because we don’t pay them well, it’s no surprise that we lack nurses in the Philippines, especially in the regions.
Now that everyone is focused on the COVID-19, let us not forget our workers who are vulnerable to illnesses—whether they are trash collectors or nurses who care for the sick. Without a doubt, our nurses sacrifice their well-being for the sake of the public.
Let’s not forget that a person’s dignity can never be measured by the kind of work he does. Because the dignity of workers comes from their being one with God, their rights can never be replaced, including their right to just and humane compensation and safe working environment. As emphasized in the Rerum Novarum, if the interests or welfare of the public or even a sector in society face threats and dangers that are difficult to avoid or stop, the government must take action. According to the book of Leviticus 19:13, “Do not defraud or rob your neighbor. Do not hold back the wages of a hired worker overnight.”
Brothers and sisters, the government has a responsibility to ensure the health and well-being of every Filipino, especially during a global health emergency. We hope those responsible for our well-being will give needed attention to our workers in the front lines, as they help fight against an epidemic that we hope will not worsen.
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