The Filipino peacekeepers soon to arrive home should be given respect and importance, instead of being ostracized just because they could be possible carriers of the Ebola virus. The soldiers are returning from Liberia, one of the countries hard-hit by the virus, after serving there for some months as peacekeepers, facing danger and risk to life, and were nearly held hostage by Islamist rebels in the region.
Residents of Tarlac, initially the place where the peacekeepers were supposed to be quarantined, expressed fear and anxiety, fearing Ebola contamination. But the troops are all well, and besides, they were quarantined in Liberia at least two weeks before they left that country. We have nothing to fear. “Wag natin silang pandirihan,” it is unfair to them.
They did their job well, made countless sacrifices, and faced their enemies bravely in Liberia. They should be welcomed with open arms. They are ordinary human beings, they also get hurt. Let’s not jump to the conclusion that they bring with them the dreaded virus. They are soldiers who protect, defend and safeguard our nation at all times. Let’s give them instead the recognition and admiration they deserve.
—ANNIE HELEN FEI B. LEJANO
Buklod-Diwa Workers,
Pila Laguna