Unsung heroes in Manila's war to defeat virus

Working safely from home may be the new normal for many, but it’s not an option for everyone. The Straits Times’ correspondents speak to workers who risk their lives for their jobs.

Food delivery riders in Manila perform a task that is arguably as important as that rendered by hospital staff, given that they help feed people who have to work from home because of Covid-19 restrictions. They also satisfy the yearning for a semblance of normalcy among quarantine-weary Filipinos. ST PHOTO: RAUL DANCEL

Barbers and grocery-store employees are viewed by the authorities as essential staff and allowed to work even when movement curbs are tightened. What they do may be mundane but they are better off than some 1.5 million workers in Metro Manila who lost their jobs during a recent lockdown. ST PHOTO: RAUL DANCEL

Raul Dancel‍ Philippines Correspondent In Manila

Updated

Published

May 01, 2021, 05:00 AM

There is nothing overtly heroic in what Mr Michael Pandan does. He delivers food to homes with his motorcycle for ride-sharing firm Grab.

But he sees extra value in his service, especially now that much of the Philippines remains under strict quarantine restrictions and millions are still stuck inside their homes.

Already a subscriber? Log in

Read the full story and more at $9.90/month

Get exclusive reports and insights with more than 500 subscriber-only articles every month

ST One Digital

$9.90 $9.90/month

No contract

ST app access on 1 mobile device

Subscribe now

Unlock these benefits

All subscriber-only content on ST app and straitstimes.com
Easy access any time via ST app on 1 mobile device
E-paper with 2-week archive so you won't miss out on content that matters to you

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.