Animal welfare group Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) extended its community outreach efforts on Saturday, March 28, by bringing its “Community PAWntry” initiative to Maginhawa Street, offering pet food assistance to struggling public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers.

The initiative aimed to support PUV drivers affected by rising fuel prices by providing not only food for themselves but also for their pets—many of whom serve as companions and, in some cases, rescued animals.

At around 3:30 p.m., volunteers distributed dog and cat food packs to 145 tricycle and jeepney drivers passing through the Maginhawa Community Pantry.

Organizers said the move was meant to ensure that “furry family members” of beneficiaries are not left behind amid economic hardships.

However, PAWS noted that supplies for human consumption—such as vegetables, eggs, and other food items—were quickly depleted, highlighting the continuing need for more donations for affected communities.

Despite limited resources, the group left around 150 additional packs of pet food on the pantry shelves for other PUV drivers who were unable to receive aid during the initial distribution.

The “Community PAWntry” is part of PAWS’ broader effort to integrate animal welfare into humanitarian response, recognizing that many low-income families consider their pets as part of the household.

The initiative also echoes the spirit of the community pantry movement in the Philippines, which promotes mutual aid under the principle: “Give what you can, take what you need”.