Matatag Community Pantry halted by barangay execs but allowed to operate later on

Barangay officials on Tuesday stopped the operation of the community pantry on Matatag Street in Barangay Central Diliman, Quezon City, only to reallow it later on.

The authorities alleged that the community pantry lacked coordination from barangay officials, according to a report by Super Radyo DZBB's Allan Gatus.

Barangay officials also reportedly claimed that the people falling in line for the pantry were not residents of Barangay Central but from other barangays.

The Matatag Community Pantry was reallowed to operate afterwards. Goods displayed  include diapers, napkins, personal hygiene kits, milk and other canned goods.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año has earlier ordered police and local government officials not to interfere with community pantries organized by private individuals.

In a statement, Año said police and local government interference should be limited only to ensuring that minimum health and safety protocols are observed.

The Quezon City government on Tuesday also expressed support to the organizers of community pantries amid the alleged red-tagging being conducted by government security officials. --Jamil Santos/KBK, GMA News