The pandemic forced a general shutdown in Ecuador four years ago. Currently, the country is going through a half-hearted and voluntary lockdown due to the fear caused by violence and drug trafficking, which it has been fighting since last Tuesday using the declaration of internal armed conflict as one of the Government’s tools.

In this context, one of the first concerns of citizens is supply, and the pandemic has repeated itself: hangers with meat and personal hygiene products remain empty for hours until the production and commercial sector reorganizes them. Supermarkets publish their opening hours to avoid crowds and calm customers.

The production sectors support the actions of the current Government against violence, but there is also criticism of its predecessors

So far there are no warnings or problems with the supply of essential products and it is important that the manufacturing sector reiterates the conditions to attack misinformation in this regard and avoid speculation. Controls at markets, as well as the decision to replace what is not found with a similar item, are necessary measures at the public and private level.

In the current circumstances, services are becoming a problem for the population. The Ministry of Health announced the gradual reopening of consultations. Jonathan Guacho, Deputy Minister of Comprehensive Health Care, announced on the morning of January 11 that 1,192 primary health care facilities have the ability to reschedule appointments. Good news for those seeking medical attention.

Insurance companies will cover compensation claims in accordance with agreed policies and contracts, the Supervisory Authority for Trading Companies, Securities and Insurance explains

Burgers, bolón, coffee, energy bars and food in general are donated by companies and entrepreneurs to uniformed police officers who patrol the streets of Ecuador

Transportation is almost completely restored in Guayaquil and, albeit with fear, citizens have continued to work, despite the fact that some businesses and schools are still working remotely. Ecuador’s economy must be reactivated, job seekers have not stopped doing so. The only way to get ahead is to work. The government, the armed forces and the national police continue their work against terrorism and, in parallel, have an obligation to guarantee the security of a productive Ecuador. (OR)