No DILG order for PNP to look into community pantries
By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan / Philippine News Agency
MANILA – Interior Secretary Eduardo Año on Tuesday denied giving orders to the Philippine National Police (PNP) to look into community pantries across the country.
"I have not ordered the PNP to look into the community pantries around the country. The community pantry has been a traditional practice in our country as part of bayanihan (civic unity) culture and spirit especially during times of calamities. Iba-iba lang ang pangalan (Only the names vary). As long as the intention is good and without political color, it should be encouraged as long as health standard protocols are complied with," Año said in a message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA) when sought for comment.
He also added that community pantry organizers must adhere to existing laws and local ordinances.
"The PNP and/or local officials may just come in if there is any violation of the law or if there are complaints from the community," Año added.
PNP chief Gen. Debold Sinas also refuted allegations of profiling on individuals or groups involved in organizing community pantries.
"There is no order from the National Headquarters to conduct any form of profiling of organizers of community pantries. It is beyond the interest of the PNP to delve into purely voluntary personal activities of private citizens," Sinas said in a press statement.
Sinas said they are aware that these community pantries are an expression of camaraderie among Filipinos.
"We have no intention to interfere but to serve the best interest of law and order and public safety in such public activities," the PNP chief said.
However, he said they are keeping a close watch on the observance of minimum health standards especially when these activities draw a huge crowd.
"We have seen similar activities during the community quarantine of 2020 when some farmers’ organizations and LGUs (local government units) hauled their surplus produce of fruits and vegetables to depressed communities in Metro Manila," Sinas said.
He added that police officers are focused on extending assistance to ensure the orderly distribution of food items to those in need. (with Priam Nepomuceno/PNA)