ILOILO – While he supports to community pantry initiatives, Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. has this reminder: The public must continue observing minimum health protocols in outdoor settings.
“Nagalikaw lang kita,” the governor stressed, referring to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) transmission.
While the provincial government banned social and public gatherings, Defensor encouraged community pantry organizers to help enforce the wearing of facemasks and social distancing; they must also make available hand sanitizers.
“Pabulig gid kamo sa barangay, sa banwa kag sa syudad nga ang social distancing ma–atinder gid kay budlay na,” Defensor said.
He also suggested: Organizers must make sure that recipients of free goods are only the residents of the area/barangay where the community pantry operates.
“Indi nga halin pa ang iban sa lain nga barangay… With this, mahapos i-manage or sustain kag indi delikado sa (COVID-19) transmission,” Defensor explained.
He also enjoined barangay officials to help organizers enforce health protocols.
On the other hand, the 13th Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) passed a resolution commending community pantries.
“Community pantries foster the spirit of volunteerism and bayanihan among the Ilonggos,” read part of the resolution sponsored by SP member Carol V. Espinosa- Diaz.
It added: “Those organizing community pantries must be free from harassment, abuse and even red-tagging. They should instead receive the support, gratitude and appreciation.”
The resolution also highlighted the importance of observing minimum health protocols, citing the death of a senior citizen at the recent community pantry organized by actress Angel Locsin.
“Ginpakita naton ang suporta sa lain-lain nga groups and private individuals nga naga-organize community pantries diri sa Iloilo. Gina-encourage naton, basi may iban pa dira nga willing nga mag-donate or organize. Wala sila dapat kulbaan basi i-harass or may red-tagging nga matabo… Kita diri sa 13th SP ginatagaan sila sang support,” said Diaz.
Meanwhile, Iloilo City’s Mayor Jerry Treñas, told community pantry organizers: “You see a need and you immediately act on it. We can only be proud of all of you.”
“Let us show bayanihan spirit in helping one another. You do not need to be elected or appointed to help our least privileged sectors of society,” he added.
The city mayor emphasized there is no need for permits./PN
