It has been more than a month since the implementation of the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) on the whole island of Luzon, and Filipino lives have never been the same ever since. ECQ was put in effect to contain the transmission of the deadly COVID-19 virus. In the Philippines, there has been a total of 10,463 positive cases, 696 deaths, and 1,734 recoveries as of 8 May 2020.   

Due to the community quarantine, most establishments have been closed, especially those that are considered non-essential. However, essential businesses dealing with medicine and food are still open to cater to our daily needs. Pick up and deliveries are usually available in the National Capital Region (NCR), but physical distancing and proper hygiene should always be observed should we avail of these services. How are we coping with replenishing our daily needs, especially for our families? We rounded up a list of essential functions for you:

1. Where to get fresh meat, seafood, fruits, and vegetables

Epalengke is a website that offers fresh produce for your families' needs. Currently operating in the National Capital Region (NCR) only, it aims to connect various markets in the online platform. They offer next day delivery and accept online payments. Apart from Epalengke, you may try other options at Online Gulayan, Gulay@OL Grocery, and Tristan Variety Store. Check out a variety of options at Maharlikart. 

2. Where to get your groceries

Metromart is an online grocery delivery service that is available to the National Capital Region (NCR) and Cainta, Rizal.  They accept Cash On Delivery (COD) and credit card payments. 

3. Where to get medicines

MedExpress is a pharmacy that offers delivery and pickup services. They operate in the NCR Metro Manila, Cebu, Pampanga, Dumaguete, Nueva Ecija, Davao, La Union, Cagayan de Oro, Baguio, Cavite, Calamba, and Laguna.

4. Where to get supplies for mothers and children

Suy Sing Wholesale Grocer is a wholesale supplier of assorted grocery items, including diapers, napkins, hygiene products, and products for women, children, and the elderly.  

5. Where to get professional help and supplies for pets

Here is a Google Maps of Veterinary Clinics and Pet Supplies in Metro Manila for your pet supplies and other emergencies.

6. Where to get professional health consultation online

• Lung Center of the Philippines’ COVID TASK FORCE is a platform of volunteer doctors for COVID-19 related questions.
• The MindNation offers mental health checks for those who are experiencing mental health illness symptoms.
• Dentista Para Sa Bayan is a Facebook group by dental practitioners dedicated to patients with dental concerns.

7. Where to get COVID-19 information and updates

Call the Department of health through  the numbers (02) 894-COVID and (02) 894-26843.

In the time of the pandemic, we should still be concerned about our overall physical and mental health to strengthen our immune system and fight off any virus and illnesses. For more information on COVID-19 and quarantine wellness, head on to the #COVID-19PH | CITIZENS' RESOURCE for a complete list of hospital information, online consultation, and other wellness activities for you and your family. The database also contains information for you to share your resources and support local initiatives.

The Philippine government has set an extension of the community quarantine from May 1 - 15, 2020. The NCR and nearby provinces remain under ECQ, while selected provinces in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao are now under General Community Quarantine (GCQ). People are still urged to stay at home in areas under ECQ, while those in GCQ allow a certain level of movement among the people.  While the whole world waits patiently for a vaccine against COVID-19, we should continue to practice proper hygiene and physical distancing as Filipinos prepare and accept the new normal.