DILG spox says community pantries need LGU nod, but others disagree

Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Undersecretary Martin Diño initially stated that organizers of community pantries must seek permission from local government units (LGUs) to ensure compliance with health protocols and crowd control.

This statement contradicted earlier clarifications from DILG Secretary Eduardo Año, who had said that permits were not necessary, only coordination.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian and Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto questioned Diño's pronouncement, stating that community pantries are acts of volunteerism and do not require permits by law.

Despite Diño's statement, many Metro Manila mayors, including those from Caloocan and Las Piñas, indicated support for community pantries and saw no need to bureaucratize the process, advising organizers only to follow usual health and safety protocols.

Navotas Mayor Toby Tiangco also clarified that residents are not required to secure a permit from the local government to set up community pantries.