Duterte urges unity to overcome COVID-19

President Rodrigo Duterte urged Filipinos to work together and show solidarity to overcome the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing that the government cannot achieve this alone.

During his fifth State of the Nation Address, Duterte called for a unified effort against the virus, comparing the fervor needed to that used in campaigns against illegal drugs, criminality, insurgency, corruption, and vested interests.

He acknowledged the current 'troubled times' and the global impact of the pandemic, noting that no nation has been spared from the disease's destructive force.

Duterte expressed hope that unity and solidarity would guide the nation towards recovery, encouraging mutual care among citizens with the phrase "Ito ang panahon para magtulungan, hindi panahon para maglamangan."

This appeal was made as the country's COVID-19 cases continued to rise, coinciding with the government's easing of movement restrictions to stimulate the economy.

The President assured that the lives and health of the people would not be compromised in any decisions made regarding the pandemic response.