The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) asked community pantry organizers on Friday (April 23) to coordinate with local government units (LGUs) and the police to ensure the observance of health and safety protocols during aid distribution.
DILG Secretary Eduardo Año assured that they are always prepared to deploy personnel and assistance for maintaining compliance with minimum health standards and preventing mass gatherings.
“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, so that the latter can provide assistance,” he said.
This followed the gathering of hundreds at a community pantry organized by actress Angel Locsin for her birthday at Barangay Holy Spirit, Quezon City on Friday, where Rolando de la Cruz, 67, collapsed while waiting in line. He was rushed to a nearby hospital where he was declared dead on arrival.
“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.
The DILG said it will continue to support and encourage the emergence of community pantries “as part of bayanihan culture and spirit,” provided that health protocols are observed.
Locsin said she is “very sorry” for what happened at their pantry and to the family of the victim, with whom she has communicated. She also admitted responsibility for the incident.
“Ang nangyari po ay akin pong pagkakamali. Sana po’y wag madamay ang ibang community pantries na maganda po ang nangyari,” the philanthropist said.
[What happened was my mistake. I hope this does not reflect on other community pantries that are going well.] – DILG/AG-jlo