The coronavirus disease (Covid-19) continues to surge across the Philippines, infecting people and claiming lives. As the country grapples with the uncertainties brought about by the pandemic, one patient is fighting to return to public service. He is the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Undersecretary Benny Antiporda.

As Undersecretary for Solid Waste Management and Local Government Units Concerns and concurrent head of the Manila Bay Anti-Pollution Task Force, his routine includes attending meetings on pollution in Manila Bay, and inspecting and closing erring dumpsites in different cities. But on March 22, despite observing health protocols as usual, Antiporda felt different. His throat was itchy, and his voice got hoarse. Sensing that something was not right, he underwent an antigen test. The result: he was positive for Covid-19.