As we face adversities in these trying times, we encounter problems we cannot juggle alone. And with every step we take, one cannot head past a crossroad without a clear path to take.
Thankfully, we have courageous trailblazers setting the path for us. These modern heroes heed our call for help as they risk their lives all for the sake of our safety, security, and other essential needs. If it were not for them, one would easily go astray and everything would go to a further collapse.
Undeniably, the SARS-CoV-2 wreaked havoc across the world, affecting the lives of multitudes of people. However, approaching our so-called “New Normal”, our unsung heroes paved the way for a safe haven amid this situation.
These brave warriors are prepared to save the day! They may not be the ones we see on our television screens, but they continue to render their selfless service to others even if it puts them at risk.
From medical professionals to firefighters, taxi drivers, and even fast-food delivery men, they made our lives easier by coming to our aid and responding to the call of service.
“The pandemic basically made us unable to go home to our loved ones. With each and every patient that comes in, we have to do our best to save them, all the while trying to maintain our own health.”
These were the words of a medical doctor Roland Mark Gigataras, who did his best to save lives despite being at risk of exposure to SARS-CoV-2. He believes that his patients’ interests are above everything else. Knowing his role as part of the frontline drove him to continue doing his job despite the accompanying risk.
“Considering the exponential increase of those needing our services, we, as medical professionals, stand firm and face the dangers to save others, embodying the ideals of the Hippocratic Oath, even though we are severely underfunded and are given minimum hazard pay. Despite our resilience, however, losing a patient or a co-worker still takes the heaviest toll on our mental health.” he added.
With waves of COVID variants springing to life, those in the medical field did everything in their power to save the lives of those infected toiling day and night in order to save as many lives as possible.
On the other side of the spectrum, firefighters underwent a shift of responsibility. The pandemic caused a decline in the statistics of fire-related incidents and, as a result, the Bureau of Fire Protection was repositioned to disinfect facilities, people, and different organizations.
As a firefighter, FO1 Kim Dagatan recognized the plight of the least, last, and lost marginalized sector whom the pandemic paralyzed. He understood that his new duty as a vanguard against the pandemic is just as important as his previous obligations.
“As long as you breathe, you can make this world a better place. Count yourself in.” says FO1 Dagatan hoping that people, in their own ways, can become a hero.
With the pandemic still ongoing, movement has been monitored and minimized. Despite public utility vehicles now making way for public transport, Mang Jonie, a taxi driver for 20 years, is always wary of passengers taking a commute.
“Lisod na karung panahona kay gamay ra ang musakay, niya delikado sad kay basin matakdan niya sa COVID, wa ra ba tay hazard pay niya gasalig ra nako amo pamilya karun,” he said.
As a taxi driver, he continues to work hard for a living. Regardless of the challenges, he remained positive carrying the motto: “Go ahead with life and fight!”
Many stores have closed their doors due to the fact that there are less customers. However, restaurant franchises are exceptions to this.
For people who love eating in fast food chains, the pandemic is a major headache. Lots of people have craved for fast food dishes during the pandemic, and with the increased demand, the food and product delivery businesses are flourishing.
Kuya Emman, a Grab driver, continued to work as a deliveryman because it brings him delight to see customers happy while also fending for his family.
“Kusog ang kita karun kay daghan muorder, pero naa sad lagi nang uban na way kalooy mucancel ug kalit bahalag napalit na ang order. Mayta mahunong nanang mga inana kay di sad lalim”, he said.
He believes that “When life gives you a pandemic, help others if you can.” He hopes that by serving people in this small way, he can make them happy despite this pandemic.
Our modern heroes have been through a lot to make our lives easier. They were aware of the possible risks of the COVID-19, but they stood strong in their field and offered their time for our convenience.
From those who fight the disease heads-on to those who deliver your packages, no matter how big or small their contributions are, they are still heroes in their own ways.
Each and every action they make has a huge impact on the ease and comfort of our lives.
If you ever come across people like them, offer them a smile or a “thank you” to acknowledge the sacrifices they made, for their services are noble.
Without this bunch of heroes, our path will be but a mere ruin.
