Pantry organizers advised to coordinate with PNP, LGUs

Quezon City, Philippines – Community pantry organizers are told to coordinate with their Local Government Units and the Philippine National Police to ensure crown control and that minimum health standards are followed during their event.

DILG Secretary Eduardo Año issued the statement following the incident at the community pantry organized by actress Angel Locsin recently.

In a press release, Año said that the incident was alarming, underscoring that the organizers should have coordinated said event to prevent such mass gathering and crowd.

“It's the organizer's responsibility to impose the minimum health standards. That's the primary reason why they have to coordinate with the LGUs local government units so that the latter can provide assistance,” Año said

While the agency supports and encourages community pantries, the cabinet official said they must adhere to existing laws and local ordinances especially those issued to control the spread of the virus.

“The PNP and/or local officials may just come in, if there is any violation of law, if there are complaints from the community, or if the organizers seek their help. The LGUs, barangays and the PNP are ready to provide utmost assistance to ensure orderly distribution goods to the public,” he said.

Aside from this, Año also urged the PNP to investigate the death of the 67 year-old man who lined up at the community pantry.

“Since somebody died, the PNP has to conduct an investigation. We cannot ascertain yet who could be liable until the completion of the investigation,” Año said.

In a police report, the senior citizen balut vendor, identified as Rolando Dela Cruz, passed out during the event; he was rushed to the East Avenue Medical Center but was declared dead on arrival.

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