Multimedia

Criticisms in a democracy are always welcome to help the government uplift the lives of many Filipinos, especially its our battle against Covid-19. But if they are destructive and offer no feasible solutions to the current health crisis, critics should not get in the way of government’s efforts to solve the nation’s problems.

It is the nature of great men and women that, long after they have died, their footprints remain embedded in the memories of their nation. Such is the case of Manuel L. Quezon whose 142nd birth anniversary we observed just last week. In fact, the whole month of August is dedicated as Buwan ng Wika in celebration of Quezon who is recognized as the “Father of the National Language” (Ama ng Wikang Pambansa). In addition, many streets, monuments, a city and even a province carry his name.

The Philippines and the rest of the world are now in a much better position to deal with the Covid-19 pandemic. The strict lockdowns in the past contained the virus spread to a certain extent. But there is no longer a need to resort to them despite recent spikes. Localized lockdowns may be more effective without causing greater damage to the economy.