Senate in the new normal

October 30, 2020 10:59 PM

Senate President Vicente "Tito" Sotto III assures the public that the Senate continues to serve the Flipino people amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The Senate of the Philippines’ Facebook page released a video showing how they are coping with the "new normal" amid the current pandemic. It is to ensure the Filipino people that COVID-19 will not hinder the Senate's efforts to serve its country. 

"The Senate has proven that it can withstand the test of time, not even a pandemic." 

In a message delivered on July 27, 2020, during the opening of the second regular session of the 18th Congress, Senate President Vicente "Tito" Sotto III gave the following speech: 

"To you, my dear colleagues, to all the hardworking civil servants in the Senate, to the dedicated public servants of all other government agencies, to our dear frontliners in the medical and other support services, at sa ating mga makapangyarihang mamamayan (and to our powerful countrymen), how can we make this situation better for every Filipino? 

As long as we share the burden of the COVID pandemic with other countries of the world, we must continue to work towards saving lives and easing our common anxiety. 

The Senate has promptly responded to the needs of our nation. 

Still, the Senate is ready to do more. In this moment of crisis, our survival depends on how strong we fight this crisis together. Since we are all affected, therefore the resolution of the problem must reside in each and every one of us. 

There is no question that the COVID pandemic will leave us all changed. In this cusp of transformation, we are challenged to take part in building a new world. 

As representatives of the people, it behooves upon your senators to stand as vanguards in this national health crisis. Nandito po kami upang ipagpatuloy ang aming nasimulan (We are here to continue what we started). More than ever, we are determined to give voice to your needs. 

All of us must pledge commitment to survive this crisis, not only individually in our families but more importantly, together as a nation. 

Together, we must fight the feeling of uncertainty that runs rife in every day. We must not lose hope. I give my solemn pledge that the senate will fight for, and in behalf of the Filipino people. 

Always remember that the Senate is here for all Filipinos. Nandito ang senado para sa inyo (The Senate is here for you)."  

Ensuring everyone's safety in the Senate offices 

The video takes its viewers on a tour of the Senate of the Philippines building. 

Outside, there are already plenty of signs reminding people of the basic health standards. A large banner plastered by the front door states, "Do not enter if you have a fever, sore throat, cough, colds, body pains, or headache. Go home and seek help."

At the entrance, guards wearing face shields and masks take people's temperatures with thermal cameras. The guests are also required to spray their hands with alcohol afterward. 

Everyone entering the premises needs to be wearing face masks and face shields. 

Automatic alcohol dispensers are in every corner of the building, as well as signs reminding people to sanitize their hands frequently. 

Markers on the floor reminding people to keep a distance from each other can be seen in elevators and other hallways. 

In some rooms, only a certain number of people are allowed to enter to ensure they keep a safe distance from each other. 

Workplaces are properly distanced to minimize contact, plastic barriers line all tables, especially the ones on the Senate floor.  

In the video, people are seen communicating whilst keeping their distances. Likewise, during meetings in the Senate, other lawmakers join through a video call to prevent overcrowding in the room. 

Medics are also present in several parts of the building in case of any emergencies. 

Every room and hallway are regularly disinfected, especially after every meeting on the Senate floor.