Nueva Ecija cops launch 34 village pantries

By Marilyn Galang / Philippine News Agency

FOOD AID. An elderly man avails of free food items offered at a community pantry in Jaen, Nueva Ecija on Wednesday (April 21, 2021). The provincial police office set up its own pantries across the province, with donations coming from the local policemen and well-meaning civilians. (Photo courtesy of Jaen Police Station)

CABANATUAN CITY, Nueva Ecija – At least 34 village pantries were simultaneously launched on Wednesday in the entire province of Nueva Ecija, spearheaded by Col. Jaime Santos, police provincial director.

Santos said the activity, which was participated in by all of the province's 32 police stations and two provincial mobile field forces, was aimed at mitigating the effects of the current pandemic.

Provided to the residents, particularly the poor, are basic food necessities such as rice, vegetables, and grocery items based on the local policemen's capability to give and with the help of well-meaning individuals and organizations that donated for the purpose.

The activity encouraged people to donate whatever goods they may share, while those who will avail of the assistance should get only what they need.

Aside from the pantry established in Barangay Gomez, Sta. Rosa, Nueva Ecija, others were also established in front of the different police stations. The project will continuously be conducted on a weekly basis, targeting the depressed and/or threatened barangays to show these communities that they are not left behind, Santos said.

He reiterated that this activity has no political color. However, he encourages other government agencies to do the same to help the needy.

“Your PNP (Philippine National Police) is here showing you our bayanihan spirit by giving and sharing; with God’s grace and mercy we shall all overcome this pandemic,” Santos said. (PNA)