On the novel coronavirus

The 2019 Novel Coronavirus outbreak started in Wuhan, China last December 2019. Until now, experts are still investigating how the virus originated and spread. According to a report, the death toll has breached a thousand.

It is very alarming that cases of 2019-nCov escalate every day. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the outbreak to be a public health emergency of international concern. This creates panic among the people, especially those countries affected by the virus. But the problem is, why did not the Philippine government immediately take action?

?In recent news, three 2019-nCov cases were confirmed in the Philippines. Filipinos are terrified with the Philippine government's actions towards this fearsome issue. Filipinos wanted the administration to have a travel ban, specifically people coming from China.  For me, this is not being an isolationist towards Chinese people but this is for preventive measures. Filipinos are also disappointed that the government's concern is more on the bilateral relations between China and Philippines rather than this public health emergency. People are scared, especially because there is no support coming from the government.

?Health concerns are important parts of national security. People must be protected and secured in any circumstances. They are not demanding too much, they just wanted to feel safe against this uncontrolled problem. But the problem is not easy for any government to handle. For now, we can only pray for the best.

Josette P. Gaviola

AB International Studies

University of San Jose-Recoletos