The spirit of volunteerism is alive in Tanay, Rizal as its residents and farmers either sell their produce at reduced prices or donate them to various community pantries that have sprouted in the province.
Municipal Agriculture Office head Romeo Cruz told Manila Bulletin that even the farmers themselves, who have been affected by the strict quarantine protocols in the National Capital Region-plus (NCR-plus), are donating some of their harvested fruits and vegetables to community pantry organizers.
Farmers in the upland villages have been voluntarily giving their produce to their buyers who are involved in the operation of the pantries that emerged in Barangay Sampaloc, Plaza Aldea, Pinagkamaligan, and Tandang Kutyo, according to Cruz.
Some organizers of the community food banks are also buying agricultural products at Tanay Public Market, the town’s trading post for products coming from upland villages in Tanay and nearby municipalities in Laguna province.
Aside from farm crops, the community pantry on M.A. Roxas Street also offers free vinegar, soy sauce, and cooking oil, but those who would like to get some condiments are advised to bring their own empty bottles.
Baby diapers are also available at a community pantry located in Barangay Sampaloc, Tanay.