LIVED EXPERIENCES OF ISABELINO FRONTLINERS DURING COVID 19 PANDEMIC

Abstract

This research is conceptualized to seek and understand the lived experiences of frontliners in Cabagan, Isabela during covid 19 pandemic. To uncover the meaning of the frontliner's experience during the COVID-19 pandemic, a descriptive qualitative design was used. The participants of the study composed of thirty frontliners working in government agencies.  A semi-structured interview guide question was used in this study to collect data.  Based on the result of the study, mental and physical exhaustion, fear of contracting or having COVID or family members having COVID, and dealing with non-conformist are the challenges faced the frontliners of Cabagan, Isabela. The factors that served as their coping mechanisms include having strong faith in God, taking precautionary measures/ observing health protocols, self care and having courage to face these obstacles. To address the issues encountered by Isabelino frontliners, the organization where frontliners work should create sustainable program specifically on their physical wellness. Training workshops such as adaptive coping skill, stress management or psychological debriefing should be provided to help them manage the pressures they face as not to risk their mental health while experiencing the stresses of the COVID-19 environment.