Malacañang has declared 2020 as the Year of Filipino Health Workers to honor their sacrifices especially during the time of COVID-19 pandemic.
Proclamation No. 976 was signed by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea on July 6 after the World Health Organization (WHO) on May 24 declared 2020 as the International Year of the Nurse and Midwife.
In his proclamation, President Duterte stressed the need to recognize how valuable Filipino health workers are especially now that the country is still facing a pandemic.
He also noted how thousands of Filipino health workers, who comprise a major component of the nation's labor force, selflessly and tirelessly provide essential quality and critical care to people, even when they themselves are putting their own lives at risk.
"The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly affected the country and most nations worldwide and has posed a daunting challenge to the country's health sector," Duterte's proclamation read.
"There is a need to commemorate the immeasurable acts of heroism and selfless compassion of nurses, midwives and all health workers, and give due honor to those who sacrificed their lives in the line of service, especially during this extraordinary time," he added.
Commemoration
Based on the proclamation, the Department of Health (DOH) is tasked to lead coordinate and supervise the nationwide observance of the Year of Filipino Health Workers.
All other agencies and instrumentalities of the National Government, including state universities and colleges, are directed to actively participate and render the necessary support and assistance to the DOH.
Meanwhile, business communities, relevant civil, society groups, and professional organizations are likewise encouraged to participate in the commemoration.
All national and local publications, television networks, and radio stations are also urged to promote and generate awareness, as well as public support for the programs and activities relative to the celebration of the Year of Filipino Health Workers.
"The Philippines… adopts the call to honor and celebrate all nurses, midwives and other health workers, whose hard work and dedication have led to the saving of countless lives, the improvement of the overall health of many, and ultimately, the betterment of our world," the Proclamation read.