UAP President issues statement following government's decision of community quarantine in MM

March 13, 2020 | By: UAP Keeping You Posted

UAP National President Arch. Benjamin K. Panganiban, Jr. issued a statement after the Philippine government on Thursday quarantined Metro Manila’s 12.8 million people, banned mass gatherings and suspended classes for a month in an unprecedented move to contain the fast-spreading COVID-19, which has infected at least 52 people in the country.

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Fellow architects, a pleasant day!

As the novel coronavirus disease, has spread around the world, including our beloved country, it has challenged all of us in different ways. All of us, I’m sure, are concerned about how the virus will affect our day-to-day lives over the next few weeks and possibly months, especially here in our UAP community. This is a moment that is different from what any of us has experienced before and, as such, it can be frightening. But it is also a moment for us to remember that we are a strong community that will do what it takes to protect ourselves and to support one another.

Just recently, President Duterte concurred with the recommendation of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Infectious Disease imposing stringent social distancing measures in the National Capital Region for a period of 30 days or until April 12, 2020. The recommendation includes suspension of classes in all levels in Metro Manila and prohibition of mass gathering, the like of assemblies, conventions, conferences, exhibitions and others.

It cannot be denied that UAP as a professional organization is affected by this direction, which is beyond our control.

Though the period of prohibition does not cover our annual national convention and exhibits which are scheduled to be held on April 23-25, 2020, we are still hopeful to proceed with this annual activities. However, we also do not have answers to all the questions as of this time that will come from this decision. This continues to be a very fluid situation, and we have an incredible team, our Natcon and Conex organizing committees that are working tirelessly to closely monitor the challenging situation, and make necessary recommendation at the end of this month.

Please be patient and know we are moving as fast as we can under some extraordinary and unprecedented challenges. Kindly take note that this is a tough time, to be sure, and some of these disruptions to our schedules and routines may create stress or anxiety. Take care of yourself and demonstrate grace to each other in the face of these challenges. Now is the time for the UAP community to band together to ensure that, even in the face of adversity, we are dedicated to supporting our community and committed to delivering on our mission of service to our members.

Kindly take note that we at the UAP National do not take these situations lightly, and even though the UAP National Headquarters will remain open to serve our members, we recognize and appreciate that the direction of our government will have a significant impact on our operations.

We will continue to update our community regularly to keep you informed of additional advisories and announcements from time to time.

Truly, this will be a defining moment for UAP. Maraming salamat po!