OMC!

We were probably getting too relaxed and complacent, having shed the shield and plastic dividers in jeepneys. And we were practically let out of jail, especially the kids who have been under house arrest for almost two years.

I really feel for them, I understand that strong urge to go out, to go anywhere, as long as it’s out of the house. It was really hard trying to make the kids understand why it’s not safe for them to go out and play.

But while yes, these simple freedoms and simple joys are a long time coming, we must not get carried away and throw our masks – and all caution – to the wind. I don’t want to get into a fight with anyone but sometimes I get the urge to tell people I see in the street to please wear their masks properly, to keep apart from the next person.

Then along comes this new variant Omicron – OMC! – as a reminder that COVID is still very much with us and the danger is, unfortunately, far from over. – Marites Ignacio, Parañaque City