Richard’s ECQ mantra: Let’s not be part of the problem
Richard Yap (second from left) with family
Nobody saw this pandemic coming. Everything that’s happening is surreal. It feels like we’re all part of a movie called “Apocalypse 2020.” If only a director could shout “Cut!” to end the chaos, like in the case of celebs who had to pack up shooting/taping (until further notice) due to the COVID-19 health emergency. “Enhanced community quarantine” (ECQ) has replaced “Lights, Camera, Action” in the stars’ daily grind.
For the fifth part of my “QuarantInterview” series, I am featuring Richard Yap. Let’s zoom in on Sir Chief’s ECQ life. May la vida corona soon turn into la vida alleluia.
Here’s my chat with Richard:
What are some of your realizatons during this pandemic?
Life is really uncertain. One day, you may be doing your routine, but the next day, that could all be gone. So many have been affected by this pandemic and some have passed away because of it. So, while we still have time, we should cherish what we have specially the people we love.
Don’t leave off for tomorrow what you want to tell or show them today because, as they say, tomorrow may never come. Another thing is, when all this came about, it evened the playing field. It doesn’t matter if you’re rich or poor, this sickness doesn’t choose whom to infect.
Lastly, we should realize that there is a God, and only He can help us at a time like this.
What’s the most productive thing you’ve done during this ECQ period?
I’ve been able to do some work even at home, raise funds and had care packages delivered to our front-liners. I continue my workout. I’ve also been able to learn other things now that I have the time to research.
What’s your personal mantra in the time of corona?
Everything happens for a reason. But we should do our part in keeping everyone safe and making sure we’re contributing to society and not be a part of the problem.
Tell us about your ECQ family bonding.
We’ve been doing a lot of cooking at home and coming up with our own desserts. I will be sharing it soon on my YouTube channel.
What’s the first thing you will do when the ECQ is over?
I’ll probably get a haircut.
What COVID-related story impacted you the most?
The one about the couple who were doctors and who both contracted the virus. They were just doing their duty as doctors, but they put their lives on the line. In the end, they ended up paying with their lives just to heal others.
What are the top five things on your grocery list during this crisis?
Rice, viands, tissue paper, disinfectants and, of course, coffee.
How do you stay calm amid the pandemic?
I think believing that there is a higher power or my faith makes me stay calm, because a lot of things happen to us, but there are a lot of things that are unexplainable that occur just right when you need them.
When the pandemic is over, what are some of the changes you would implement in the way you live?
I would make more time for my family and try to keep work time shorter but more productive. I’d also like to spend more time with the family doing things we haven’t had the chance to do. Grab every opportunity and live every moment as if it were my last.
