In the midst of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the country’s medical workers have made the ultimate sacrifice in facing the threat head-on.
However, a problem arose for the doctors, nurses, and staff — a shortage in personal protective equipment.
One local company that has stepped up and addressed the problem is sports apparel manufacturer Team Rebel Sports.
Teaming up with renowned fashion designer Michael Leyva, TRS — the official jersey provider of NorthPort in the PBA and Lyceum in the NCAA — pivoted its operations in its factory in Antipolo to address the urgent need of our frontliners.
“Actually, Michael Leyva approached us because he needed help,” said Team Rebel Sports owner Joel Cu.
“Of course, we cannot turn a blind eye on our modern-day heroes. That is why we immediately said yes to Michael. Para sa bayan ito eh.”
The dry season is when the sales and production of TRS usually peak. But due to the pandemic and the enhanced community quarantine in effect in Luzon, the company has downscaled its operations to 50-percent capacity.
But that did not stop them from giving back.
“This is an urgent matter [that] we need to address since time is of the essence for our health workers,” Cu continued. “We may have lost possible income, but we can easily make it up after this crisis.
“What’s important now is the lives at stake.”
The staff of TRS has been working non-stop to produce face masks and protective suits.
Facemasks have been in constant production since March, while the production of the suits began last Thursday.
TRS and Leyva are looking to produce 900 suits and thousands of face masks.
Besides this, Team Rebel Sports has taken care of its employees by building them a place to stay for the duration of the ECQ.
For his part, Leyva was in charge of design and distribution.
Each protective suit is packed in a Michael Leyva paper bag with the bible verse, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. — Isaiah 41:10.”
