QC issues stricter rules for humanitarian activities

Humanitarian activities in Quezon City should be done house-to-house to prevent a chain of COVID-19 transmission in communities, the local government said on Thursday.

In the city memorandum, the local government's distribution of financial assistance, medical aid, social amelioration program,  vaccination program, and other highly essential activities are the only "allowed community service events."

But QC Mayor Joy Belmonte said donor groups carrying out humanitarian activities such as distribution of relief goods must follow stricter health guidelines during the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ).

“The conduct of humanitarian activities is very much welcome in our city. However, we have to enforce some protocols in light of the ECQ restrictions. No programs and congregations will be allowed as they may become superspreader events,” said Belmonte in a press statement.

In doing house-to-house distribution, Belmonte said donations in kind must be placed in front of recipients' houses, preferably on chairs and tables.

Donor groups must also be composed of no more than five fully vaccinated individuals to protect them from severe infection of COVID-19, Belmonte added.

The distribution group must also not exceed 10 persons.

Further, the donor group must be accompanied by no more than five local government representatives, Quezon City Police District (QCPD) personnel or barangay officials.

Likewise, the donor groups must observe minimum COVID-19 safety protocols such as wearing of face masks and face shields, and social distancing.

“It will be safer for our residents or beneficiaries to stay at home and wait for the ayuda than for them to congregate at another venue. This way, we are sure that their risk from exposure is less if not zero,” she said.

Groups who will start donations or other humanitarian activities must coordinate with the local government through the Office of the City Mayor at telephone number 8988-4242 local 8303 or via email at ocm@quezoncity.gov.ph.

"Coordination should be done at least two days prior to the conduct of the activity," read the statement.

During the implementation of ECQ last April, the city government also imposed guidelines for community pantries to enforce strict health rules and maintain peace and order in the locality. 

Metro Manila has been under the strictest classification of lockdown since August 6, which will end on Aug. 20 unless extended. —Consuelo Marquez/KBK, GMA News