Thread by @gideonlasco

This new lockdown is NOT what the healthcare workers were asking for. In fact, it was the exact opposite of what they demanded and recommended.

(A thread)

HCWs prefaced their demands by saying that “we are waging a losing battle against COVID-19 and we need to draw up a consolidated, definitive plan of action”.

Duterte repeated his promise of a vaccine but offered no clear plan to rescue the struggling healthcare system.

HCWs reported that they are experiencing fear, fatigue, and poor working conditions.

Duterte's response is to threaten HCWs, castigate them for airing grievances ("Do not demean the gov't"), dare them to stage a revolution, and set them up as objects of blame.

HCWs pointed out that the government has failed in case finding, isolation, contact tracing, calling instead for a public health solution.

Duterte ignored these demands, and doubled down on his military approach, even telling nurses to join the police if they want higher pay.

HCWs demanded better public transport options - including bike lanes, adding: "We need this now, not next year".

Duterte's MECQ effectively eliminated transport options - making it harder for HCWs and non-HCWs alike.

HCWs pointed out that any "timeout" requires social amelioration for people affected by it.

Duterte again ignored this call, instead mouthing off defeatist statements - "I cannot give money and food to the people" - despite having loaned billions for the pandemic response.

In conclusion, Duterte has just made it worse for HCWs and non-HCWs alike, succeeding only in turning the latter against the former.

His latest actions confirm the diagnosis: His failed, incoherent, divisive non-leadership is responsible for our continued misery. DUTERTE RESIGN!