With the holiday season fast approaching, it is almost inevitable for people to stay  at home. Filipino Christmas traditions such as preparing meals for noche buena are very much alive despite the casualties brought by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Metro Manila (a home to over 12 million residents) was officially placed under the general community quarantine (GCQ) the year’s end, which eases the restrictions on the movement of people. But never forget, that even as life, now, nine months after the stringent lockdown measures have been placed, seems to have slowly reverted to “normal”, the virus is still very much around and before it gets you, knowing how to keep yourself and your loved ones protected should always be your priority.

Whether you’re out for a quick trip to the grocery store, or have very important matters to attend to, remember to travel safely during the continuing pandemic. 

We have listed tips to keep you and your community safe from the deadly virus.

Face mask: UNIQLO Airism Mask. PPE: Avel Bacudio.

WEAR YOUR FACE MASK

Face masks help reduce the transmission of COVID-19 by blocking the droplets ejected by an infected person through his or her nose and mouth. Make sure that your mask fits close to your face; remember that wearing it will not only protect you, but will also protect the people around you. 

Make sure that you also have an extra face mask in case you have to stay outside longer than you expected. If your face mask is disposable, do not re-use it and do not leave it exposed.

MAKE A LIST

Grocery shopping will be easier if you can easily pull out a tiny list. It does not only make your travel time shorter, it will also help you spend your money well! Now with restrictions in place and with the virus still very much around, staying the smallest time outside to get necessities is the most productive thing to do.

DISTANCE YOURSELF

To keep yourself safe from the virus, maintain a 6-feet distance from anyone outside. Remember, COVID-19 can spread through close contact. By minimizing the amount of close contact we have with others, we also reduce our chances of contracting the disease and spreading it within our community. Remember: this rule still stands and even if you see others disobeying, do not take this lightly.

Always keep your essentials ready and accessible, these include your pocket-sized alcohol or hand sanitizer, sanitary wipes, extra set of facial masks and tissues.

CONSIDER TYPES OF TRAVEL

If you have important things to attend to, always consider the type of transportation you have to use. If you’re just going to a nearby shop, you may opt to ride a bicycle (or just walk)–it burns calories and it also keeps you from using public transportation. 

If you have to use the bus or jeepney, make sure that your face mask and face shield are on. Stay away from crowded lines as much as possible. If you have an extra penny, try using ride-hailing services like Grab. 

For air travel, always consider the long time you’ll spend in airport security lines. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most viruses and other germs do not spread easily on flights because of how air circulates and is filtered on airplanes. “However, social distancing is difficult on crowded flights, and sitting within 6 feet of others, sometimes for hours, may increase your risk of getting COVID-19.” 

It is also wise for you to get to know travel restrictions and safety protocols and measures enforced in other LGUs that may not be the same as the one you are used to. It is important to know which areas are requiring necessary paperwork, among other things to consider in order for your trip to be as smooth and convenient as possible.

MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE

According to an October data presented by the Department of Health (DOH), the number of health workers who died because of COVID-19 increased by a third last September.

The best way to help our health workers combat the virus is to refrain from going out. If you have the privilege to just stay at home, use it for people who do not have any choice. Before going out for leisure, take time to think about people who need to go out for work, people who live in shanties, or people who need a time out because they are abused at home.

But if you needed to have a go on your contact with the outside world, always remember that in this time of uncertainty, taking care and protecting yourself also protect others. Following and really imbibing these protocols is a respect for human life and an extra step to caution always helps.

Photographed by:  Jan Mayo