Not the time to be lax, callous, or indifferent

Are we back to square one?

Nowadays, we are seeing again worrying numbers in COVID-19 cases. Just when there were hopeful signs that we were overcoming the virus, some of our uncooperative, selfish, undisciplined citizens have pushed us back to square one.

Many of our people have seemingly become unmindful of the health guidelines and travel and distance restrictions. I recently saw a group of youngsters loitering around without face masks. Other people who also noticed this courteously called them out, but to no avail. Security personnel at the malls have been doing a great job reminding shoppers to wear face coverings, but some stubbornly pull their masks down as soon as they are inside.

This is not the time to be lax. Let us not be callous and indifferent amid this pandemic. Let us instead show empathy, prudence, and kindness. We should continue to take the necessary precautions without letup to avoid regression: Wash our hands often, wear face masks and face shields, and maintain social or physical distancing protocols.

REGINALD B. TAMAYO,
assistant city council secretary,
Marikina City