MANILA – The leadership of the House of Representatives has requested President Rodrigo Duterte to declare Sunday, March 22, a “National Day of Prayer” amid the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) outbreak.
In a letter dated March 16, Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano, Majority Leader Martin Romualdez, and Minority Leader Bienvenido Abante said the pandemic has hampered gatherings in churches, mosques, temples, and other places of worship as a result of strict social distancing measures in place.
“As we continue to brave through the days ahead of us, the House of Representatives respectfully calls on the President to declare a National Day of Prayer on Sunday, 22 March 2020,” they said.
“As partners for change under the Duterte Administration in providing a safe and comfortable life for all, we call on all Filipinos to come together in prayer. Pray that The Almighty may grant our frontliners wisdom, protection and compassion, our leaders’ wisdom and discernment, and all Filipinos cooperation and resilience. Together we can overcome this adversity,” they added.
The House leaders recognized the President’s efforts in handling the current crisis, citing the health measures taken to prevent the spread of Covid-19 and response measures to curb the negative impact on Filipinos and the country’s economy.
“Rest assured that the House of Representatives is more than willing to cooperate and further assist the Executive branch of Government,” they said.
As of Thursday afternoon, the Philippines has 217 confirmed cases of Covid-19, with 17 deaths. (PNA)
