COVID-19 surge in Philippines threatens to overwhelm hospitals

The Philippines is experiencing a devastating surge in COVID-19 cases, as the country battles its fourth wave of the pandemic.  

More than 2.4 million COVID-19 cases have so far been recorded in the Philippines (WHO), the second highest in South-East Asia. Hospitals are fast running out of beds, with escalating case numbers pushing the nation’s healthcare system to the brink. 

The Delta variant has now been detected in all 17 regions across the Philippines and the low vaccination rate across the country means that many of the most vulnerable members of the community are at risk.  

There are also growing concerns about the prolonged disruption to children’s education. Classrooms have been closed since March last year and many students, particularly those living in rural areas, do not have access to a computer or internet at home to facilitate remote learning.  

Supporting Manide indigenous families during COVID-19

Through our partners, Socio Pastoral Action Centre Foundation of Daet (SPACFI), we are supporting Manide families to protect their families and communities from COVID-19.

The Manide are indigenous people who live in the Camarines Norte province. Indigenous minorities in the Philippines often experience discrimination and disadvantage, limiting their education and employment prospects.

Some Manide communities live in remote areas where it is difficult to access health care and accurate information about COVID-19. The lockdown has presented an additional challenge for our local partner, as they reach out and support vulnerable Manide communities during this pandemic.

Our local partner, SPACFI, turned to technology to overcome some of these obstacles. By using mobile phones, project staff were able to mentor, guide and support project participants during lockdown. Some income-generating groups created their own social media chat groups to stay in touch with project staff. These online platforms enabled the groups to promote and sell their products, so that they can earn an income to support their families.

The local government also granted special permits to allow one SPACFI staff member to visit remote project areas, while following strict COVID-19 preventive measures.

With your support, Manide communities can continue to improve their access to health care, safe drinking water, food assistance, sanitation and sustainable livelihoods training during this pandemic. They can also attend COVID-19 orientation sessions and learn about the importance of health protocols, such as wearing face masks, washing hands with soap, rubbing alcohol, and maintaining social distancing.