TO: All Carmelite Confreres of the Province of the Blessed Titus Brandsma – Pilipinas
FROM: Fr. Rico P. Ponce
Prior Provincial
SUBJECT: Our Attitude and Response to the Pandemic Caused by the Corona Virus
DATE: March 13, 2020
We are all aware of what is happening now — the World Health Organization (WHO) declaring a pandemic, government officials declaring a state of emergency and placing in community quarantine areas with confirmed cases of the disease, people panicking, people spreading lies and half-truths, profiteering, self-proclaimed “messiahs” using the issue to promote their own agenda, and more.
Relative to this, we call on all confreres to remain calm and continue to minister to the people at this time of great need.
We enjoin all to observe the following:
1. Take extra precautionary measures in caring and ministering, especially to those who are sick. Advisories from health experts and authorities have been issued on proper procedures in handling the case. Please be guided by said advisories.
2. You may form your own Quick Response Team in your own areas of responsibility to monitor the situation and to respond accordingly.
3. Those who recently arrived from trips by air or sea, whether internationally or locally, are strongly encouraged to go on a voluntary self-quarantine for 14 days to closely monitor their health condition. Should there be symptoms of the virus, the confrere must immediately go for check-up and be available for observation, investigation, and treatment.
4. Cancel or reschedule work-related travel arrangements.
5. Pray in our masses and community prayers the prayer composed by Pope Francis through our Lady, Health of the Sick, the Oratio Imperata from the CBCP. Some Dioceses have composed their own prayer and issued guidelines. You may choose all or any of them, at your discretion.
6. For our parishes and communities to fully coordinate with their respective LGUs.
7. Disseminate official and verified information on precautions, preventive measures and caregiving to our co-workers, parishioners and BCCs, students and others under our supervision and care as Carmelites.
For your proper guidance and compliance
