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Manila Bulletin

Philippines

Cash distribution to seniors turns into a 'superspreader' event

Philippines

Cash distribution to seniors turns into a 'superspreader' event

By Andrea Aro

What was supposed to be a distribution of the monthly pension for senior citizens turned into a super spreader event when a large crowd flocked to Delpan Sports Complex in Tondo, Manila on Monday, Sept. 27, disregarding physical distancing and other health protocols.

Senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and solo parents are entitled to receive P500 monthly cash allowance under City Ordinance No. 8565.

Each beneficiary received P1,500 for July to September.

Officials of Barangay 20 failed to impose health and safety standards against the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, as shown in photos provided by the Manila Police District and posted on social media.

A possible surge in COVID-19 cases is feared, with netizens saying the neighboring Gat Andres Bonifacio Memorial Medical Center “will take the brunt of new COVID cases just because barangay officials failed to enforce some sense of discipline”.

Of Manila’s 1,169 active COVID-19 cases as of Saturday, 252 are from Tondo 1 and 2. The district also accounts for most of the 1,559 coronavirus-related deaths in the city.

Related Tags

senior citizens MANILA LGU No physical distancing MONTHLY ALLOWANCE

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