Michael V. thanks COVID-19 frontliners: 'You're already part of history as heroes'

Some heroes wear capes. Others are at checkpoints and hospitals, wearing uniforms and face masks as they try to fight the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in the Philippines.

As a special "thank you note" for these frontliners, Michael V. compiled some meaningful messages from the cast of "Bubble Gang" and "Pepito Manaloto" who want to express their gratitude to them.

Among the celebrities who gave messages of thanks were Kim Domingo, Antonio Aquitania, Joyce Ching, Betong Sumaya, Maureen Larrazabal, Archie Alemania, Denise Barbacena, Janna Dominguez, Mikoy Morales, Marny Ross, Mosang, Valeen Montenegro, John Feir, Charyze Solomon and Manilyn Reynes.

Bitoy started the video with a heartfelt message of his own.

He saluted the men and women in the health sector, police force and the military for their bravery, dedication and sacrifice for the country.

"Buti na lang naging komedyate ako, kasi hindi ako kasing-skilled niyo, hindi ako kasing tapang niyo... Walang ibang makakagawa ng ginagawa ninyo kung di kayo. And for that, I thank you," Michael V said. "(Ang) buong bansa, malaki ang utang na loob sa inyo and we will continue to pray for your safety dahil literal na nakasalalay ang buhay ng mga kababayan natin sa mga kamay ninyong lahat."

Bitoy added, "At this point, part na kayo ng history as heroes dito sa fight against the coronavirus. So stay safe, and may God bless us all."

As many as 217 confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the country as of Thursday afternoon, along with 17 fatalities.

Many private companies have suspended work and modified arrangements for their employees in the hope of preventing the spread of the virus, but doctors, nurses and hospital staff remain in the front lines, together with policemen and military officers who are manning checkpoints.

Health workers in Metro Manila have also gone through some off-duty ordeals, like getting to and from work as Luzon has been placed under an enhanced community quarantine as part of government efforts to contain the spread of the virus.

—Margaret Claire Layug/JCB, GMA News