DAVAO CITY- Various groups from the private sector thru a joint statement has expressed unity towards recovery from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In the joint statement, the group cited the Coronavirus disease outbreak has spurred widespread anxiety and caused deep impact on the economy and people's livelihood.

It also recognized that the pandemic will be here for a longer time and the need to look for ways to promote economic growth while at the same time helping protect the health of the Filipino people.

The groups which signed (represented by their heads) the statement of unity include; Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc (DCCCII), Philippine College of Physicians, Archdiocese of Davao, Ambassador Club of Davao, People Management Association of the Philippines-Davao (PMAP-Davao), Universal Islamic Center, ICT Davao, JCI Senate-Davao, JCI Davao Region and the Davao Tourism Association.

The statement praised the efforts of the healthcare professionals extending their service to fight the virus and vowed to support these frontliners by providing their needs by continuously exerting efforts to provide for their needs.

"We believe that a balanced approach that ensures economic, spiritual and psychological well being as well as public health is the key to a safe secure recovery," the statement reads.

In the statement, the groups committed to help the government and health professionals in containing COVID-19.

" We commit to work hand-in-hand with our local government and health professionals to restrain the spread of COVID-19, help the authorities disseminate accurate information, and advocate on practicing safety health measures, such as wearing of face masks, and implementation of sanitation practices and physical distancing as part of the new normal at home and in the workplace," the statement read.

The groups also committed to help the economy by patronizing local products and services, and to promote responsible business investments in the city and the region as stable and secure sources of income are greatly needed by many in this time of uncertainty.

"We look forward to the sustained recovery of the city and the region's economy and help find opportunities for collaboration and partnership between MSMEs to help the business community bounce back and emerge stronger amidst the outbreak," reads part of the statement. (PIA/RG Alama)