Duterte declares 2020 as year of Filipino health workers

President Rodrigo Duterte has declared 2020 as the year of Filipino health workers as he recognized their services amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Duterte directed the Department of Health (DOH) to lead and supervise the national observance of the year of Filipino health workers, according to Proclamation 976 which he signed on July 6.

He also encouraged the local government units, business communities, relevant society groups and professional organizations to actively participate and assist the DOH.

The President also asked media outlets to promote the programs and activities in connection with the celebration.

“Thousands of Filipino health workers, who comprise a major component of the nation’s labor force, selflessly and tirelessly provide essential, quality and critical care to individuals, families and groups, even in the face of great peril, fear, uncertainty and vulnerability,” the proclamation stated.

“There is a need to commemorate the immeasurable acts heroism and selfless compassion of nurses, midwives and all health workers, and give due honor to those who sacrificed their lives in the line of service, especially during this extraordinary time.” — Virgil Lopez/RSJ, GMA News