The Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) has been the government’s largest effort to flatten the curve of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases in the Philippines. As the number of cases continues to spike, uncertainties loom. Work, classes, and even transportation are suspended. There are long lines in the grocery stores. Some basic commodities are becoming scarce. From alcohol, masks, and personal protective equipment (PPEs) that are meant to be protecting the frontliners have been unavailable in the market.

Indeed, the COVID-19 pandemic is causing difficulties, rendering the underprivileged in the country more vulnerable.

But, despite these difficulties, one thing is certain; the “bayanihan spirit” is alive and innate in us Filipinos. The advent of calls for volunteer-driven relief efforts in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic is evidence that the Filipino bayanihan thrives in times of crisis.

Amidst these trying times, the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA) together with all the government agencies, local government units (LGUs) and the private sector remain committed in advocating and promoting volunteerism to help alleviate the serious health, economic, safety, and security threats of the on-going pandemic.

PNVSCA echoes the continuous call for volunteers for the COVID-19 response efforts. The Agency has established an online mechanism to match and link available volunteers with organizations conducting COVID-19 related initiatives. Volunteers who signed up were referred to the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Philippine General Hospital Medical Foundation, Philippine Red Cross, Wear Forward, FeedPH, and to the Department of Health. PNVSCA also helps in disseminating the call for volunteers and donations of other government agencies as well as non-government partners.

Awardees of the PNVSCA’s Search for Outstanding Volunteers have also launched their own volunteering initiatives in their respective areas. In Davao City, for example, Engr. Cristy Gallano, 2019 SOV national awardee distributes food packs in the community in Catalunan Grande where she has been serving as a long-time volunteer.

PNVSCA is one with the Filipino community in the fight against COVID-19. It continues to laud the modern-day heroes, our health workers, frontliners, and volunteers. As individuals and organizations heed on another to address the needs of our fellowmen, we encourage everyone to volunteer even in simple ways. Initiatives, no matter how big or small, can create a ripple effect to people for the good and well-being of our community.

Visit PNVSCA on Facebook and on our website at www.pnvsca.gov.ph for more info.