Community pantries: Discipline and bayanihan spirit is seen in Batangas City

by Thiago Santos May 1, 2021 Barangay Kapitan Emma Tumambing Community Pantry (Pho...

by Thiago Santos
May 1, 2021

Barangay Kapitan Emma Tumambing Community Pantry (Photo from Palakat Batangas City FB account)

BATANGAS CITY - Batangueos have demonstrated discipline and concern for others by properly implementing community pantries in various barangays and areas throughout the city.

This is also the aspiration promoted by the Eto Batangueo Disiplinado program of Mayor Beverley Dimacuha's administration, especially in this time of the pandemic.



The community pantry is a concept that began on Maginhawa St. in Quezon City with the aim of serving those in need by giving free food items. It is designed to give based on ability and take based on need.

It is slowly spreading across the country. The leadership of Barangay 24, which they call "Hapag ng Bayan," is among those who helped set up the community pantry, which opened recently with the assistance of GAYAKabataan, a group of young people in the city, their friends, and private individuals who are willing to help.



The first day of the community pantry here went off without a hitch. Barangay Kapitan Emma Tumambing is grateful to everyone who contributed to the project.

"Overwhelmed is an under statement of what I feel kaya naman nagpapasalamat ako sa lahat ng tumulong, pero mas nakakatouch yung mga batang riles na nagpaabot ng donasyon mula sa maliit nilang kinikita," said Tumambing.



Aside from groceries like canned goods, bread, eggs, and rice, the Hapag ng Bayan also sells toiletries like sanitary napkins and diapers. Alcohol can be refilled here as well.

In carrying out the project, Barangay Kaptain Emma ensures that all safety and health protocols are strictly followed.

The Hapag ng Bayan, according to the Barangay Kapitan, will last as long as someone makes a donation for the residents of the said barangay.