(From left) Gretchen Ho, Jim Paredes and Bianca Gonzalez (Image: Instagram/@gretchenho, @iamsuperbianca, Twitter/@Jimparedes)
Taking a break from social media, reading a book, binge-watching shows, exercising—these are just some of the activities celebrities suggested while the “community quarantine” is being implemented in Metro Manila to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
President Duterte placed Metro Manila under a 30-day “community quarantine” starting March 15 during his national address last Thursday, March 12. This followed the announcement that the suspension of classes throughout the metropolis will be extended until April 12. “Planned or spontaneous” mass gatherings are also banned, while social distancing is to be practiced.
Amid the influx of news related to the virus, TV host Bianca Gonzalez reminded everyone to “take a break” from news in her Twitter post yesterday, March 13.
“This is your friendly reminder to take a break from all the news if it feels too overwhelming,” she said.
Gonzalez also recommended to her followers that they could watch some TV series or play video games.
“Some suggestions: manood ng CLOY, maglaro ng ML, magbasa ng libro, makinig ng podcast (watch “Crash Landing on You,” play Mobile Legends, read a book, listen to podcasts)? ”
This is your friendly reminder to take a break from all the news if it feels too overwhelming.
(Some suggestions: manood ng CLOY, maglaro ng ML, magbasa ng libro, makinig ng podcast? 😊)
— Bianca Gonzalez (@iamsuperbianca) March 13, 2020
“Umagang Kay Ganda” host Gretchen Ho started a discussion on “how to survive a #quarantine,” as seen on her Twitter page yesterday.
“Reply to this tweet on what you’re planning to do for the next month!” she said.
How to survive a #quarantine?
Reply to this tweet on what you’re planning to do for the next month! #MetroManila #CommunityQuarantine
— Gretchen Ho (@gretchenho) March 13, 2020
Ho’s followers gladly obliged with a stream of replies on their plans during the quarantine.
“Updating my blog and [writing] about places I’ve been, guides to local areas, cities and foods,” Twitter user @zulfikaralex responded. “There’s always light after the storm.”
Ho noted, “This is really nice.”
This is really nice :) #SurvivalTips #CommunityQuarantine https://t.co/tVDQt7is1P
— Gretchen Ho (@gretchenho) March 13, 2020
Aside from doing work from home and “working out from home,” a certain @margadeona said she sees the extra time at home as “the perfect opportunity” to clean her place.
“AhhHHhhh[…] Marie Kondo-ing,” the TV host said, referencing to the Japanese organizing consultant Marie Kondo.
AhhHHhhh.. Marie Kondo-ing 🤣😂😅 https://t.co/WTB15J9GKX
— Gretchen Ho (@gretchenho) March 13, 2020
Quality time with family and loved ones, this is one @Aliiice4real’s focus during this period.
“Use this as an opportunity to bond with your family and loved ones,” the fan said. “Eat and watch movies together, make a meaningful conversation with them. Make your bond stronger.”
The former volleyball star agreed, “Tama. Balik sa mahalaga (Right. [Let’s] go back to what’s important).”
TAMA. Balik sa mahalaga 🤗#SurvivalTips #CommunityQuarantine https://t.co/QBXgnBo0PP
— Gretchen Ho (@gretchenho) March 13, 2020
Exercising regularly is @lester2k1’s goal.
“Been wanting to pick up the habit of exercising regularly,” the Twitter user replied to Ho. “Sana payat na ako pagkatapos ng quarantine (I hope I’m more fit after this quarantine).”
Ho started the clock on her fan’s fitness journey as she responded: “You’ve got a month (laughing emoji).”
You’ve got a month 😂😂😂#SurvivalTips #CommunityQuarantine https://t.co/0VVCQgep1C
— Gretchen Ho (@gretchenho) March 13, 2020
Musician Jim Paredes, meanwhile, encouraged people to feed their minds during the quarantine period.
“With the month-long lockdown, if you are succumbing to the temptation to hoard, go to the bookstore now and make sure your brain is fed and healthy.”
https://twitter.com/Jimparedes/status/1238271487020154880
As of Friday, there are 64 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the country. /ra
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