The CoVID-19 pandemic has essentially brought the world down to its knees. In less than a month, the whole world was at a standstill. Social distancing, wearing of face masks, and frequent hand hygiene was suddenly mandated by the government and World Health Organization. Ordinary moments, like hugging and holding hands, were suddenly taken away from us. Yet, the Filipino people remained resilient as ever. The Bayanihan spirit was seen all over the country, and there was an outpouring of support from ordinary citizens to the medical frontliners.
In Tampilisan, Zamboanga del Norte, strict measures were done by the Municipal Health Office, headed by Dr. Carmel Mathilda Ladeza, MD. Compliance with these measures ensured that the municipality stayed safe from the dreaded virus, and as of writing, have no recorded cases of CoVID-19 infections. All the barangays have coordinated with the local government in being vigilant towards suspected cases.
So, what are the changes made in Brgy. New Dapitan?
1. Gatherings are no longer allowed. This includes meetings from different organizations found in the barangay (4Ps, Ips). They are notified via DXJR FM, a local radio station, every 2nd Sunday of the month at 4:00-5:00 PM. This ensures that the members and beneficiaries remain safely in their homes.
2. Dispensing of hypertensive and diabetic medications are still done at the Health Center following proper health protocols. This is done with the assistance of the Barangay Health Workers.
3. Classes at both the New Dapitan Elementary School and New Dapitan High School are held at home. Modules are given to the students by their respective teachers. With the help of their parents and/or elder siblings, the students answer the modules. Online classes are not done due to the lack of devices by most of the families and the lack of a reliable cell reception needed for internet connection.
4. Monthly barangay meeting sessions are still done by the officials, but with proper social distancing and use of face masks.
5. Strict compliance of curfew hours from 10:00 PM-5:00 AM.
Following these changes, Brgy. New Dapitan was able to adapt to the current situation and kept the barangay safe. It’s a good thing we were able to teach the students the proper hand washing during our last rotation. Let’s all hope and pray that this pandemic will end, until then, let’s keep up with the new normal. AMPING!