BAGUIO CITY— The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Cordillera commended Cordillerans for organizing civic activities such as pantries, and urged organizers to coordinate closely with local government units (LGUs) to prevent community transmission of COVID-19 in the region.
“We commend our Kailyans for establishing community pantries across the region. But as we face an increase in COVID-19 cases, we urge all of our organizers to collaborate with LGUs in establishing civic activities to prevent the transmission.” said Araceli San Jose, OIC Regional Director of DILG CAR.
She stated that the government cannot fight the pandemic alone and will require all assistance possible, including civic interventions.
She stated that the Department will not interfere with civic activities, but will ensure that organizers follow existing laws and local ordinances, particularly those enacted to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
OIC-RD San Jose underscored that the coordination with LGUs will ensure that the minimum health protocols, such as wearing of masks and face shields, as well as social distancing, are being followed during such activities.
Adding, “with the LGUs assistance the barangays could also help in terms of enforcement of minimum health and safety protocols,” she added.
“Let us continue to demonstrate our ‘bayanihan’ spirit by giving what we can while strictly adhering to our protocols,” she said.
Meanwhile, she urged organizers to find ways to reach senior citizens in their homes following the death of a 67-year-old senior citizen who fainted while waiting for his turn at a community pantry set up in Quezon City.
“Please do not hesitate to contact us if you require our assistance. We don’t want to lose people while trying to save them during these difficult times; our LGUs and village leaders can assist you in providing assistance,” said OIC-RD San Jose.** Pamela Mariz T. Geminiano
