Duterte vows to defend health workers amid attacks

President Duterte vowed to defend health workers battling the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) amid reports of discrimination and attacks.

He ordered law enforcement to secure the safety of health workers and retaliate against those who harm them.

Duterte lamented that some individuals endangered health workers by splashing them with chemicals, a danger that could be more immediate than the virus itself.

The President also authorized the police and military to use lethal force against individuals causing trouble during the distribution of relief goods if they endanger law enforcers.

This directive follows a recent incident where a nurse in Tacurong City, Sultan Kudarat, was attacked with bleach by five suspects.

Duterte emphasized the importance of adhering to government orders during the enhanced community quarantine, warning that harming health workers is a serious crime.