Sorsogon 2.0: The Clear Rebirth From a Quick Blur

Due to COVID-19, almost everyone's summer plans got cancelled. Through almost eight months of being locked down in our own homes due to a blur brought by the coronavirus, who knew that we could take this as a chance for an upgrade? 

Most of the population saw the outbreak of COVID-19 as a threat, But for the eyes of Sorsogon, they envisioned it as an opportunity to revive and unravel its hidden treasures. From beaches to antique structures, its local government unit (LGU) has girded to ensure a new, beautified Sorsogon after terminating the coronavirus outbreak.

In an online interview on Thursday, renowned actress Love Marie "Heart" Evangelista-Escudero stressed that Sorsogon is a hidden paradise, and her platforms on social media with others have been a key for everyone to witness and anticipate the natural beauty waiting for them after the pandemic. "I'm happy that Sorsogon is being highlighted this day, and it's like a place you can go to after the pandemic," she added.

The province of Sorsogon has been highlighted by its people, called the Sorsoganons, from online posts in Instagram and Facebook with the #MahalKongSorsogon. From here, this has been a way for people to have a sight of what it will be like to visit the province once community quarantines are over. 

Moreover, Sorsogon LGU has ensured that the affected sectors such as tourism and agriculture are invulnerable. Tourist workers have been participating in employment programs wherein preparations for former and future tourist sites are on their duties. There weren't any conflicts for the workers in the agricultural sector, fortunately, as the province relies more on its products.

Although many have been anticipating enjoying the treasures of the province, the local government has yet to finish what needs to be done. The completion of the structures are sought to happen in mid-November, while the beautification of Sorsogon such as restoring its antique lighthouses, Ruins of Balwartes, and the Barcelona Church and other sites are expected to be finished by February. 

Due to the current situation of the country from strict protocols and lockdowns, the province has yet to reopen for tourism as long as safety is ensured according to Sorsogon Governor Francis "Chiz" Escudero. "Nagbukas daw ang Baguio ngayon, pero limitado lang sa dalawang tao ang pwedeng bumisita sa buong Baguio, 'di pa rin talaga pagbubukas 'yon, para may masabi lang," Gov. Escudero added. 

Despite this, the helm of Sorsogon implied that they are slowly opening doors for travelers as long as they are clean and have no risks of contracting the deadly virus in the province. Escudero also advised everyone who plans to travel to Sorsogon to wait at least until next year because the cure for COVID-19 is still in the works, and by then, the vaccine will be given first to frontliners and vulnerable areas.

Although Sorsogon has been mainly focusing on its tourism revival, they did not forget about the current situation for the unfortunate Sorsoganons who got stranded in Manila. They have been temporarily staying in the capital as COVID-19 has halted their trips back to their province. The Sorsoganons eventually got repatriated, adding to about 370 people sent back home on March 20-25.

COVID-19 has been the root of almost all fiascos this year, but despite that, Sorsogon still looked on the bright side of it and took its opportunity to show not just Sorsoganons, but the whole population, the hidden gem that took time to reveal. When everything is set to open, Sorsogon will be able to welcome everyone with a new look and a sight to remember.