By Maria Rodriguez
This is World War 3. But instead of bombs and guns killing us, it’s COVID-19. This is the biochemical war that sci-fi movies illustrated. People have suffered all over the world: The security and safety of the people threatened. So many people died, and the number of those getting sick continues to rise. These consequently somehow affected their mental health and the increased loneliness that lead to depression among the vulnerable groups. Nevertheless, this COVID-19 pandemic is a more comfy World War 3.
People are similarly affected today just like those who suffered during World Wars 1 and 2: First, businesses were forced to shut down, and consequently, people lost their jobs. Needless to say, there are still many companies that are shutting down, while others are already contemplating whether to continue their operations or not. Second, people are dying; but instead of bombs, guns, and torture, people are reportedly dying of COVID. Third, during World War 2, weapons manufacturing companies earned money, while today network companies are earning a lot due to distance learning, virtual meetings, and entertainment platforms.
On the other hand, the pharmaceutical firms are also earning more now due to worldwide demand for testing kits, vaccines, medicines, supplements, and all sorts of medical equipment related to the prevention and treatment of COVID-19.
The Fourth is just like what happened after World War 1 when Germany was forced to sign the Treaty of Versailles to end hostilities of war. People are forced to sign a consent and undergo “quarantine treatment” as mandated by the government even for those who have been cleared prior to their arrival in the Philippines. Here at our own native land, people are forced to be sent to quarantine facilities even at the simplest symptoms and when home care can be done easily without depriving those who badly need hospitalization. Just like the victims of atrocities of wars, today, the people around the world are experiencing an injustice of COVID-19, though we’re not sure who or what created or caused this virus.
Today, COVID-19 positive people are “persecuted” for being the carriers of the disease and are forcibly quarantined by the government in hideous facilities. Those quarantined have to stay in basketball courts or public schools and sleep in tents, surrounded by strangers. With this setup, it looks like the government is compromising their security and safety—not just from the virus, but from people they barely know.
Apart from this, minors (below 18 years old) and seniors (above 65 years old) are oppressed by the government by compulsory confinement at home all the time. Their own homes became their prison; limiting their movements, social interaction, and personal access to various services. They’re at the mercy of these so-called “authorized persons” designated by the government — or should we call them wardens?
Though racial prejudices still exist, the prejudice in this war targets social-economic classes. A lot of people aren’t given sufficient medical attention just because of their socio-economic stature. Everyone is being oppressed, though the intensity and effect on a person’s life vary. The economy, mobility of people, socio-cultural aspect of the lives of people, and society are affected. People are living in fear, discontent, and disappointment.
On the other hand, wars like these have paved the way for technology development, weaponry, and arsenal. This pandemic has hastened the Industrial Revolution from 4.5 to 5. It forced technological advancements in modes of communication, connection, and medical technology. As technology advances, businesses that deal with communications, networks, and hi-tech solutions became more profitable.
What do you think?