Church group: Stop prejudice, resentment against Chinese people
by Leslie Ann AquinoThe Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches has called on its members to emulate Jesus’ love for others by helping fight the rising prejudice and resentment against people of Chinese descent amid the coronavirus (COVID-19).
In a statement, PCEC National Director Bishop Noel Pantoja reminded everyone that the Chinese people “are not the disease but are also victims of this outbreak.”
He said its saddening how the disease brought to the surface the ugly head of racism.
“Sadly, the COVID-19 outbreak also brought to the surface of our society the ugly head of racism toward people of Chinese descent, whether local Chinese-Filipinos, or tourists and workers from China,” said Pantoja.
“We, therefore, denounce strongly the spreading in any form of false claims that incite discrimination and unnecessary fear and panic,” he added.
The PCEC also called on all Evangelical Christians and Filipinos to pray for the healing and recovery of all people who have been infected with the coronavirus; for the protection of health workers who regularly come into contact with confirmed COVID-19 cases; for the protection, resilience, and encouragement of the people and the leaders of China who are suffering the most from this epidemic.
It also urged everyone to take the necessary measures to prevent infection such as frequently washing one’s hands, practicing respiratory hygiene, seeking medical care when symptoms appear, and other similar steps.