"In this difficult time that the Azores are going through, I am addressing the Azorean people to convey a direct and simple message.
We are living in a challenging situation as a People, as a Region and as Citizens.
What is put to the test this time is not just our aptitude as a Region.
First of all, our existence as citizens is put to the test in order to scrupulously comply with the guidelines and determinations of authorities, starting with the Regional Health Authority.
Our existence as citizens is put to the test in order to protect the health and safety of our fellow citizens.
Our existence as citizens is put to the test so that, through mutual help and solidarity, we can ensure that, as a People, we emerge as winners from this battle in which we are now involved.
The enemy we face at this time and in the days to come is not just the Covid-19 virus.
It is also the weariness and exasperation with the measures, harsh but necessary, that have already been implemented and with others that may still be put into practice.
It is also the doubt and discouragement that may understandably arise as time goes one.
Therefore, I call for the Confidence and Hope of the Azorean People.
To the Confidence in the work that is being done at all level to overcome this challenge.
To the Hope in better days because, at the time, we will all be called to redo and to rebuild.
I call to the best of each one of us because the best of each one of us is, beyond any doubt, the best for everyone.
In this combat, each Azorean is a soldier, each family is a platoon as each parish, each town and each island is a regiment.
The Azorean people are the army that will lead the Azores to victory in this war.
Our weapons are neither machine guns nor cannons.
Our weapons are the intelligence, serenity, responsibility and solidarity of each one towards each one.
As in all wars, this one too has heroes.
Health professionals, firefighters, civil protection services, security forces and all those who, in the most diverse sectors, keep our Region functioning and guaranteeing what is necessary for each one of us.
To all, and on behalf of all, I thank you!
I thank you, not only for the availability, solidarity and dedication, but also for the pride in this People to which I also belong.
Let us unite ourselves in our sense of belonging, our love for this blessed land and in our unbreakable will to move forward!
Keep yourselves and your families safe
Let us all stay safe.”