Divisoria shoppers urged to pick health over low-priced goods

The throngs of shoppers flocking to Manila's Divisoria were urged on Thursday to prioritize their health amid the coronavirus pandemic over the low-priced goods that the commercial center is known for.

According to Jun Veneracion’s “24 Oras” report, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III and Manila Mayor Isko Moreno made rounds to remind shoppers of the true cost of shopping in crowded areas.

“Totoong makakakuha kayo ng mura. Pero lahat ng natipid ninyo, lahat ng nadiskwento ninyo, kapag kayo na-impeksyon ng COVID-19, pumasok kayo sa ospital ng buo, ang labas ninyo, abo na lang,” Moreno warned.

He also urged vendors to sell their goods online instead to thin the crowds that pack Divisoria regularly.

“Ngayong Kapaskuhan, posible po na sumipa ang kaso ng COVID kung magiging pasaway tayo,” Duque said.

Since the start of the holiday season, shoppers have been flooding the streets of Divisoria.

Most customers wear face masks and shields but fail to observe social distancing.

The Department of Health earlier reminded shoppers that not even masks or shields can protect them from COVID-19 in crowded areas.

“‘Pag matetepok, matetepok,” said senior citizen Gloria Bolado, who visited Divisoria for the first time in a decade.

Uniformed personnel regularly remind shoppers through megaphones and banners to practice physical distancing and other health protocols.

“Siyempre naman po ‘di po mawawala ‘yung kaba, eh kailangan nating kumita,” elderly vendor Rosalinda Torres said. -Julia Ornedo/MDM, GMA News