National Policy Against Covid-19 chief implementer and vaccine czar, Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., on Friday hailed the sacrifices, dedication, and services of various front-liners in responding to the prevailing pandemic.

“As we celebrate the birth of the Prince of Peace, let us not forget to express our deepest gratitude to our front-line workers, health care providers, doctors, nurses, soldiers, and essential workers from different industries,” Galvez said in a statement.

“You have faced enormous risks and worked beyond the call of duty to ensure the health and safety of our people during these difficult times. You are all heroes in the truest sense of the word.”

He cited the Filipinos’ resiliency.

“This year has been full of challenges brought about by the health crisis but we carried on. The pandemic brought us together, demonstrating the Filipino people’s indomitable Bayanihan spirit,” Galvez said.

He also lauded the initiatives of the private sector as well as the local government units.

“The private sector has taken the initiative and is working side by side with the government in strengthening our nation’s health care system,” Galvez said. “Local government units have also scaled up their Covid-19 testing, contact tracing, isolation, treatment, and recovery efforts. They are now better equipped to deal with the health conditions in their respective localities.”

The whole-of-government and the whole-of-society approach, he said, is allowing the country’s economy to revive “slowly but surely.”

Meanwhile, Galvez reminded the public to continue observing minimum health standards, such as wearing face masks and face shields, regular hand washing, practicing social distancing, and avoiding crowded places.

“As we gather in the comforts of our homes, let us remember to create a safe and healthy environment for ourselves and our families,” he said.

Galvez said the public should not be complacent and should never put their guard down.

“With the guidance and grace of our Almighty and each and every Filipino working together, we will be able to overcome this crisis, and build back a better and stronger Philippines,” he said. (PNA)