The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has expressed concern over the growing number of Filipinos who have lost their source of income and livelihood in the middle of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.
The CHR's concern was raised following the recent shut-down of media giant ABS-CBN and the impending retrenchment of its 11,000 workers.
"The thousands of workers confronted with the sudden loss of jobs also adds to the number of the struggling population that continues to suffer from loss of livelihood due to the extended lockdowns," the CHR tweeted.
The CHR said it is important for the government to support businesses and companies that are facing economic turmoil because of the quarantine.
"Mahalagang may sapat na suporta din sa mga negosyo’t kumpanya na kinakailangan para matugunan ang pangangailangan ng ating mga frontliners (It is also important to have adequate support for businesses and companies in order to meet the needs of our frontliners)," the CHR wrote on Twitter.
The Commission commended the companies that are still helping the government in the hopes of containing the spread of the virus. These companies are either providing relief goods to the less fortunate or creating personal protective equipment (PPEs) for the frontliners.
"Ikinagagalak natin na maraming donation drives at initiatives ang mga iba't ibang grupo, kumpanya, at indibidwal para sa feeding centers. Ipagpatuloy natin ang mga ganitong pagbabayanihan na mahalagang suporta para sa lahat ng frontliners (We are pleased that there are many donation drives and initiatives by various groups, companies, and individuals for feeding centers. Let us continue these heroic deeds that provide support to all frontliners)," the CHR said.