During the initial months of the pandemic, Filipinos have recognized new breeds of modern heroes. Without wearing any cape, medical workers, store staff, and security personnel have been courageous throughout the pandemic by protecting and providing for their country. Another are the delivery riders, who braved the streets even if COVID-19 was on the rise, bringing food and supplies to everyone’s doorsteps.
While we are now seeing the light at the end of the pandemic tunnel, that doesn’t mean that the hero treatment given to delivery riders should meet its end as well. A delivery rider’s job is not an easy thing to do. Just imagine being on the road under the scorching heat, or sometimes in a light rain, while being careful with food orders is a tough task. That’s why small gestures of kindness shown to them are cherished not only by the delivery riders but also the people who understand the demand of their work.
The latest to poke netizens’ hearts is SM Supermalls’ Rider’s Lounge, where delivery riders can relax and rest as they wait for their customers’ order to be done.
“We care for our dedicated delivery riders who bring your SM cravings to your doorsteps,” the shopping giant posted. “That’s why we’ve prepared Riders’ Lounge #OnlyAtSM as safe spaces for our delivery partners as they rest and wait for your orders.”
Delivery rider Rhanil Yabut expressed his gratitude for the mall’s effort in creating the lounge through a now viral Facebook post.
“Thank you so much sa sobrang pag-welcome sa mga rider,” Rhanil posted. “Binigyan mo kami ng magandang parking at libre, ngayong naman Riders’ Lounge (You (the mall) gave us good and free parking, and now this Riders’ Lounge).”
Robinsons Malls also took the same route by providing spaces of comfort for delivery riders while in the middle of their work.
“Gusto namin ipadama sa kanila, mga delivery riders natin na, family ang turing namin sa kanila. Sa Robinsons Malls, alam nilang may lugar sila dito kung saan sila pwede magpahinga habang hinihintay ang orders nila (We want to let the delivery riders feel that we view them as family. At Robinsons Malls, they know they have a place to rest while waiting for their orders),” said Rowell F. Venzon, mall operations manager at Robinsons Magnolia.
Delivery riders truly deserve these rest lounges.
Article and Photo originally posted by Manila Bulletin last June 22, 2021 10:29am and written by John Legaspi.
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