Athlete pays it forward amid COVID-19 pandemic

As the whole world continues to face the wrath of the dreaded COVID-19 virus, more and more concerned citizens are spearheading their own initiatives to alleviate the plight of today’s unsung heroes: the thousands of doctors, nurses and other medical frontliners who fearlessly stand tall and risk their lives as our first line of defense.

In the Philippines, a good number of public servants, celebrities and private citizens continue to pay it forward with their own acts of service. One of these good samaritans is swimming champion Alfonso Bautista, who mounted his own campaign to make and donate face shields for the frontliners.

The 22-year-old gold medalist hatched his plan as early as mid-March when most hospitals started reeling from a shortage of PPEs and face shields. 

Spurred by the grim scenario, Alfonso wasted no time in gathering funds from family and friends. He then commissioned a manufacturer to create a signature line of high-grade face shields made from acetate and foam. 

He recalls: “I formulated this plan when a couple of doctors approached me saying that there was a shortage of protective equipment for the frontliners. I knew I had to do something to help my community and not sit idle at home.”

Even as a one-man team, Alfonso was able to cover a lot of ground as he liaised with his network of doctors from hospitals all over the city. 

Within a span of two weeks, he was able to donate 500 face shields each to San Juan Medical Center, Medical Center Parañaque, and the BCDA group in Clark, Pampanga. 

Being the son of a doctor, Alfonso recalls his dad’s selfless work ethic as his main inspiration for his acts of service. He says, “Ever since I was a child, every time there was a medical mission, he would always take me along with him. It was from there that I learned the value of helping the community and being selfless.” 

Despite the risks, Alfonso faced his challenge head-on in the hope of inspiring others to do the same. He states, “Despite wearing a mask at all times, I remained concerned regarding the risks of going out during a pandemic. But I would say going out there and helping people outweighed playing it safe. I did this initiative also to help inspire people to give back to the community more. One small act of kindness goes a long way.” 

To this day, Alfonso continues to step up his game as he, along with business partners, recently 

put up a dialysis center in the province of Isabela to help the community.