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The Philippines and the rest of the world are now in a much better position to deal with the Covid-19 pandemic. The strict lockdowns in the past contained the virus spread to a certain extent. But there is no longer a need to resort to them despite recent spikes. Localized lockdowns may be more effective without causing greater damage to the economy.

One hundred twenty-two years ago, in the early evening of August 13, 2020, the American flag was raised over Fort Santiago marking the start of American colonization of the Philippines. This was preceded by the so-called “Mock Battle of Manila,” a charade of a skirmish between American and Spanish forces designed to placate the latter and betray the Filipinos.

A leader should inspire his people in the face of this growing pandemic to clear the cloud of pessimism hovering in the Philippines. President Duterte is playing that role. He remains confident the Philippines will overcome the current health crisis, and even offers himself as the first man in the Philippines to test the Russian vaccine.