Senators are now looking at the possibility of slowly opening up the economy to make up for the loss during the community quarantine period.
Senator Ralph Recto suggested the economy to open “little by little” with employers giving necessary protection to their workers and consumers by implementing protocols in the workplace including disinfection, testing, social distancing, and wearing of masks.
Recto added that the unemployment rate may increase if consumers still have confidence issues.
Senator Franklin Drilon proposed essential industries should start operations to prevent serious implication on the economy. “The social unrest that could result from 2million workers unemployed for the past 6 weeks is a reality we face. From the economic standpoint, I am extremely concerned of the further damage to our economy by the continued lockdown of the agriculture, manufacturing and construction sectors.”
To help speed up economic recovery, Senator Imee Marcos suggested proceeding with the “Build, Build, Build” program which can also provide thousands of jobs to construction workers.
Senator Grace Poe said changes should start with the smallest sectors affected by the pandemic, including tricycle drivers who are dependent on government assistance. The National Confederation of Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association of the Philippines said they have not yet fully received the subsidy from the government even before the extension of the quarantine period.
Meanwhile, Health Committee Chair Senator Christopher Go has reiterated the need for a little sacrifice to enforce much-needed discipline in fighting the pandemic. – Report from Eunice Samonte
