Baguio pantry groups told: Coordinate with b’gays

By Jordan G. Habbiling

BAGUIO CITY -- The city council in a resolution, urged organizers of community pantries in the city to coordinate first with barangay officials before conducting the activity to ensure protocols against Covid-19 are observed.
    Councilor Joel Alangsab, author of the resolution, said observance of minimum health protocols and orderliness in conduct of outdoor events and activities is needed to reduce health threats posed by the coronavirus pandemic.
    Alangsab proposed organizers and barangay officials request the assistance of the Public Order and Safety Division or the Baguio City Police Office if necessary.
    There has been a rise of community pantries in different localities in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
    There were several community pantries operating in different barangays in Baguio City organized by communities, philanthropic organizations, businessmen, and private companies.
    The city government, in a council resolution, had lauded the altruistic efforts of organizers.
    Meanwhile, in a letter addressed to all provincial governors, city and municipal mayors, and punong barangays, DILG Secretary Eduardo Año stated that, although community pantries should not be subject to the requirements of LGU permits, the same should be coordinated with the LGU in terms of area of operations and venue of the pantries taking into consideration compliance with road clearing directives of government, among others.
    Año’s letter said LGUs are tasked to enforce health protocols in their respective ordinances and the IATF resolutions and shall provide assistance to the community pantry organizers including providing a venue where the pantry can be put up and maintaining peace and order there as well.