Keeping the workforce in tip-top shape

They may not be at the forefront, we may not know their names, but they are the lifeline of every real estate project. Rain or shine, they toil, even risking life and limb so we can have our homes, condominiums, office buildings, malls and the infrastructure the country needs.

As the government pushes its “Build, Build, Build” program further, Filipino laborers deserve the necessary support and protection they need.

In celebration of Labor Day on May 1, MediCard Philippines Inc. and Inquirer Property teamed up to treat some members of our labor sector in Caloocan City to a Super Surprise.

A short discussion on construction site safety was conducted by Dr. Pauleen Faustino. With the Inquirer’s beloved Guyito at the helm, games were held and prizes were given away as the workers gathered for a quick but much needed break. First aid kits and lunch were handed out to some 400 laborers at the site.

“The health and safety of the workers reflect on their productivity and later on the economy as well,” said MediCard’s Dr. Pauleen Faustino. “It will affect their output which, in turn, will also affect the business and the benefit of the community. If the workers are safe, their output is expected to be good.”

Faustino emphasized on the importance of being in protective gear—hard hat, high visibility vest and shoes—as soon as a worker steps onto the construction site. “Being in proper gear as soon as the worker steps on the site protects him or her from any injury that he or she might sustain from the workplace,” she explained.

Aside from being in protective equipment, Faustino also reminded everyone to always be aware and mindful of the dos and don’ts on a construction site. “If people know what the consequences will be, they will feel that they need to take extra care while at work so that accidents can be avoided,” the doctor added.

Working outdoors in the peak of summer is definitely extra tough so Faustino stressed on staying hydrated. “If they are exposed to this kind of heat and they work long hours, they need to keep themselves hydrated aside from eating well and resting well,” she advised. “Hydration is key. Fluids, even simple water, make us regain energy. Plus, when you are dehydrated, that’s when you succumb to exhaustion, or even heat stroke.”

“We extend our commitment to the labor sector by providing products and services that would suit their resources and needs,” said MediCard marketing services manager Kate Cruz-Joaquin. “We also ensure that we reach out to them through various projects like this one.”

“We believe that each building, each house, church, hospital or establishment would not be standing without you. We at Inquirer Property would not have stories to write, too. With MediCard, we take this opportunity to celebrate and thank you,” Inquirer Property editor Tess Samaniego expressed her gratitude to the laborers.

Speaking on behalf of his fellow laborers, one construction worker promised support for the country by doing his job well. “Sana suportahan natin yung bansa natin para mapaunlad natin. Bilang isang manggagawang Pilipino, ipaglaban natin yung kakayahan natin,” he said.