EOC to activity organizers: Work with authorities on crowd control

THE Cebu City Emergency Operations Center (EOC) has reminded organizers of community pantries to coordinate with authorities to avoid any violation of health protocols.

This, after police were called to control the crowd that had gathered at a community pantry in Barangay Mabolo Saturday morning, May 8, 2021.

City Councilor Joel Garganera, EOC deputy chief implementer, said community pantries are allowed, but organizers have to coordinate with the barangay, the police, or with the EOC for proper assistance.

Garganera said community pantries are “highly laudable” initiatives, but organizers and recipients are not exempted from following minimum health protocols.

“Dapat gali na mas mosunod sila para ang ilahang maayo nga binuhatan, dili mahimong (They should strictly comply with health guidelines so their activity won’t become the) source of exposure and transmission to the public,” said Garganera.

Police Station 2 (Abellana Police Station) personnel also went to the Fuente Osmeña Circle where many people gathered outside the Robinsons Cybergate to have their national identification card processed.

Garganera received a report from the Police Station 2 that the crowd vacated the area after the mall management intervened. Apparently, majority of the people who went there did not have appointment slips.

The EOC now requires barangays and the Philippine Statistics Authority to coordinate closely with each other for strict compliance with health protocols.

Garganera said the EOC is willing to assist in any events or activities that are allowed under the modified general community quarantine.

“Good intention is not enough. It should be coupled with good planning. The PNP (Philippine National Police) and EOC are always here to assist for the safe conduct of this very noble endeavor,” said Garganera.

The EOC has been urging the public to be mindful, especially now that the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) situation in the city has improved.

As of Friday, May 7, Cebu City logged 464 active cases, according to EOC data. (JJL)