SMILE. A worker at a gasoline station dons a smiley-scribbled face mask. The masked employee is among those featured at a short video entitled “Smile”, a tribute to the front-liners braving the Covid-19 pandemic. (Screenshot from "Smile" video)
MANILA — As a tribute to all the front-liners facing the threat of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), the Department of Tourism (DOT) has recently released a moving clip capturing not only these people's resilience but their sacrifices and dedication, too.
"Filipinos are known for their smiles. Even if we can’t see the smiles behind the masks, their warmth can be felt in acts of compassion and kindness. As we wait out the end of this challenging time, let us never forget to show the world who we truly are: a nation of kind, caring, and compassionate people," the DOT said.
Directed by Joel Limchoc, the video was pieced together from existing user-created videos and photos already posted online in social media and the news media.
The video titled "Smile" features the men and women at the front lines such as medical health workers, grocery and convenience store clerks, delivery men, basic services and utility crew members, and the police and military officers.
Ely Buendia, who composed “With a Smile” for the legendary band, the Eraserheads, generously allowed the use of his composition while singer and songwriter Bea Lorenzo provided vocals over a sparse, cinematic reworking of the classic anthem.
The video can be accessed at https:// www. facebook. com/DepartmentOfTourism/videos/1693119867494856/ or https:// youtu.be /RczklyAeiG0. (PNA)
