On March 16, the Philippine government set the entire island of Luzon in an “enhanced community quarantine” in a bid to contain the spread of the coronavirus disease. Here are some reactions from Filipino celebrities and personalities to the announcement.
Kapuso actor and Asia's Multimedia Star Alden Richards had one thing to say since the announcement of an “enhanced community quarantine.”
Kapuso singer Mark Bautista showed his support to the government's decision for an enhanced community quarantine. According to Mark, “The virus is quicker to respond than our government. Kung nangangapa ang ating gobyerno, let's do our part for now. If we really are concerned sa mga nangangailangan ng tulong then do something to help them.”
'Unang Hirit' host Joyce Pring simply asked Filipinos to continually pray for their countrymen who live on day-to-day wages in order to put food on the table for their families.
'Idol sa Kusina' host Chynna Ortaleza defended her husband from bashers by stating that they had to work for their hard-earned money similar to the working public. Furthermore, she reiterated that she hopes for a “better sense of community moving forward.”
Since the announcement of an “enhanced community quarantine,” Chynna Ortaleza didn't shy away from asking the public for an explanation regarding “controlled services for food and health” to avoid panic to Filipinos.
Filipino businessman Manny V Pangilinan heeded the call of the government to help businesses, both large and small, in coping with the business. Since the announcement, Manny Pangilinan has already confirmed that he asked his employees to do work from home while maintaining their salaries and benefits during the crisis.
Kapuso reporter and host Atom Araullo is hopeful that the “enhanced community quarantine” will help control the spread of the virus.
Kapuso actress Winwyn Marquez is still left confused after President Duterte's speech about an enhanced community quarantine.
Former Deputy Presidential Spokesman Abigail Valte simply wanted more clarity with regards to President Duterte's speech.
Former Miss Universe Catriona Gray responded to the crisis by reposting two inspirational posts about being a warrior in times of crisis and reframing one's mindset about the mandated “social distancing” rule all over the world.
Social media influencer Camille Co simply prayed for all those who cannot afford to find a home during these trying times.
Saab Magalona, daughter of late rapper Francis Magalona, is still confused with what the president wants to mandate during the press conference.
Social media influencer Tricia Gosingtian simply wrote heartbreak emojis in light of the ongoing enhanced community quarantine in Metro Manila and other parts of Luzon.
To put some sense into the panic of a lockdown, former Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach reposted Lea Salonga's post about how a self-quarantine does not equate to what our forefathers have gone through in times of war.
Similarly, singer Lea Salonga urged Filipinos to stay at home during the enhanced community quarantine with some facts.
Former TV lifestyle host and blogger Jenni Epperson took to Instagram how she felt about the new mandate imposed by the government. She then reminded everyone to practice self-quarantine and discipline to combat the virus.
Queen of Comedy Aiai delas Alas showed her support to President Duterte's mandate via a post on Instagram. In the caption, the Kapuso comedienne also lauded the President for visiting the crowd in the Valenzuela-Meycauayan boundary. “Nabasa ko kanina dumalaw si PRRD sa Valenzuela-Meycauayan boundary ng pagka aga aga… Salamat Pangulo at papalakparan ko rin ang Mayor ng San Juan, Manila, Pasig, at Marikina… Good job mga mayors!” she wrote.
'Bubble Gang' star Mikoy Morales discussed the importance of social distancing, donating, avoiding the spread of fake news, and prioritizing mental health.
Nico Bolzico said that the enhanced community quarantine is just a temporary step back. He also thanked people in the frontlines.
Gabbi Garcia said, "Kapit lang" as we face COVID-19.
Joyce Ching and her husband Kevin Alimon shared a prayer for comfort to help ease the emotions of the Filipinos.
Marvin Agustin said that restaurant owners can share their food to their staff, as well as hospital employees if they're scared of wasting it during the enhanced community quarantine.