Drilon: Nation forever grateful to our heroes

SENATE minority leader Franklin Drilon reminded Filipinos to be thankful for the sacrifices made by the heroes who dedicated their lives for the improvement of our lives as the country commemorates National Heroes’ Day.

In particular, Drilon cited the sacrifices being made by the country’s healthcare workers who are tirelessly helping fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Today, we salute the brave men and women who dedicated their lives in the service of our nation. To the heroes, especially the medical frontliners who are leading the fight against COVID-19, thank you for all your sacrifices. We will never forget your bravery and selfless acts. The nation is forever grateful,” Drilon said.

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As of August 28, the Department of Health said 6,583 healthcare workers have tested positive for COVID-19. Of the number, 6,118 (89.3 percent) have recovered, and 40 (0.6 percent) have died, 695 (10.1 percent) were active cases, 456 (65.6 percent) were mild cases, 235 (33.8 percent) were asymptomatic, two (0.3 percent) in severe condition, and two (0.3 percent) in critical condition.

Under the proposed Bayanihan to Recover as One Act or Bayanihan 2, healthcare workers who will be severely infected with the virus will receive P100,000 while the families of those who died of the virus will each get P1 million. Healthcare workers who contract mild or moderate cases will get P15,000.

The Department of Labor and Employment has approved the deferment of payment of the holiday pay for National Heroes Day.

“In view of the existence of a national emergency arising from the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) situation, employers are allowed to defer payment of the holiday pay on August 31, 2020, until such time that the present emergency situation has been abated and the normal operations of the establishment is in place,” the DOLE said.

President Duterte issued Proclamation No. 845 on November 15, 2019 declaring August 31 as a regular holiday. — With Gerard Naval

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