The government is doing its best to revitalize the local economy, protect public health, and improve the plight of Filipinos but cannot triumph against the pandemic on its own.

President Duterte made the statement after appealing anew to the public to observe health precautions against the coronavirus, especially when traveling outside their homes.

According to the President, public cooperation would be crucial to effectively contain the spread of the disease that has left more than 600,000 people infected in the country.

"As we do our best to revive our economy and give our people the opportunity to recover and lead better lives, I appeal to everyone to please continue observing the prescribed health and safety protocols, whether in our homes or in public places, especially transport," Duterte said during his visit to Dumaguete City Thursday, March 11.

"It is only with everyone’s cooperation that the nation can effectively contain the spread of COVID-19 and triumph against the pandemic," he said while attending the inauguration of the development projects within the Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport.

Duterte further said: "In solidarity, let us take further strides towards a better, more dynamic and prosperous nation for everybody." The President made a similar appeal for strict observance of health precautions against the coronavirus when he attended the launch of a new port operations building in Dumaguete City.

Even as the government has gradually eased movement restrictions to stimulate economic growth, Duterte asked travelers to move with caution and responsibility especially as the immunization drive has just recently started.

"As we gradually reopen our society and economy to recover from the pandemic, I would like to remind the transportation sector and the traveling public to continuously observe public health and safety protocols, especially in the public transportation facilities," he said.

"We have yet to fully implement our national vaccination program. Prior to this, increased mobility must be done with utmost caution and responsibility," he added.

The latest appeal from the President comes amid the surging cases of infections in the country in recent days. Authorities have warned the public against complacency despite the vaccination rollout in the country. As of March 12, the country has recorded 611,618 cases of infections with 12,694 deaths.