Amplifying Humanism Amid the Pandemic

by Javan Lev Poblador
Dumaguete City

The COVID-19 pandemic has rendered the world immobile. The poor and less privileged are even pushed further to a corner. Broken health care systems are exposed. And even bodies are piling up. The country and the world are at war for something we cannot see. With all these tensions, tragedies, and misfortunes happening all over the globe, collective actions are needed more than ever.

Due to the quarantine and lockdowns, we are constricted into the confines of our homes. However, being trapped in our houses shouldn’t stop us from being humanists. In a country where almost everyone has access to a social media account, this should be the perfect opportunity to spread important information and educate people regarding the pandemic.

“The role of humanism in this crisis is to provide practical solutions to the problem instead of simple thought and prayers or Facebook rants. Humanism should also be a beacon of accurate information from reliable sources amid the profuse amount of fake news that litter across social media,” Doms, a HAPI Cebu member said.

He also mentioned that people can also stay at home to help in flattening the curve. And as an underboard nurse, he took it upon himself to promote health awareness through health teachings done online.

Quirl, a HAPI Dumaguete member, also emphasized that “helping is not limited to monetary means.”

“Even your empathy towards the bleeding people in this pandemic war is counted. I call for those who really care about the people, to set aside all our personal differences and focus on what good can be done to our fellow. Let “support” be our common denominator,” he said.

As humanists, we have a duty of care to all of humanity and the succeeding generations. Before and after any tragedy, humanists must be there to offer aid and help. Humanism after all links us to each other. It is an ethical way of life that looks after humanity.