“Bayanihan” is a term used to refer a spirit of communal unity and cooperation. It has been a part of Pinoy identity. By offering our hands and offering everything we can to our countrymen.

The spirit of Bayanihan has been shown and practiced especially during this trying time. From typhoons, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and other unfortunate natural calamities that occurred in our country which resulted to filipinos’ loss of homes and loved ones—Bayanihan is truly evident and alive amongst us.

And now, amid the COVID-19 outbreak, Philippines has once again tested. But, Filipinos are proving that this pandemic is just a tip of the iceberg when it comes to what our country had already gone through. Albeit this crisis is indeed an utterly tough challenge for us, we have been showing our support and lending a helping hand to others who are affected the most by the pandemic. Here are some of the inspiring stories that really showed “Bayanihan” spirit:

Group of restaurants and caterers are offering free meals to COVID-19 frontliners

Even though these businesses are undoubtedly affected by the crisis caused by the coronavirus, restaurants owners did not hesitate to extend their help by offering free meals to COVID-19 frontliners after Metro Manila Hospitals called for help in providing food for doctors, nurses, med techs and other personnel who work long hours.

Organizations founded to help Filipinos affected by COVID-19 and frontliners

One of these organizations is ACT10N, it is UP Integrated School Batch 2010’s Donation Drive for COVID-19 Frontliners. They had already collected ₱165,837.38 and were able to separately buy different items for their six beneficiaries. They also have their transparency report where you can check and track the donations that were sent to them.

Mental health groups providing free consultation during the pandemic.

According to Philippine Star’s report, Dr. Roland Cortez, chief of the National Center for Mental Health said, about 200 people call the 24-hour hotline numbers (0917-898-8727 and 989-8727) of the hospital every day since the ECQ took effect in Luzon last month.

“Mood disorder, as prime characteristic of depression, is on the rise. Many people feel sad and slowly lose interest in life because of the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) caused by COVID-19 pandemic.” Dr. Cortez also claimed.

Click here to check the list of the groups providing free consultation 

Private sectors donated in response to COVID-19

According to CNN Philippines’s report, big businesses in the Philippines such as SM Group, Gokongwei Brothers Foundation, Resorts World Manila, and San Miguel Corporation had pitched in at least P6 billion to support the government's alleged COVID-19 relief efforts. According to them, the fund goes to cash aid and donations such as personal protective equipment (PPEs), foods, and COVID-19 test kits. Other private companies have also made donations directly to hospitals, communities, and other frontliners.

There were also other  independent groups and individuals who are continuously raising and doing initiative to help communities.

With Bayanihan—with one little action, if we put them all together, the chain reaction will never stop.