Inspired by PH initiative, Timor-Leste sets up first community pantry

CNN – Published Apr 22, 2021 2:29:07 PM

Metro Manila — The bayanihan spirit goes even beyond the Philippines as residents of Timor-Leste set up the country’s first-ever community pantry.

“Noting the local economic effect of this month’s historic flooding in #Dili and the year-long COVID-19 lockdown in Timor-Leste, I took the opportunity to discuss with some Timorese friends and diplomats about the concept of “bayanihan” and particularly showed them photos of #communitypantry set-ups in (the Philippines) to which they gained much interest,” Vice Consul Laser Sumagaysay of the Philippine Embassy in Dili said in a Facebook post on Wednesday.

Sumagaysay noted that while official Philippine aid operations in Timor-Leste are mainly geared towards the local Filipino community, Filipinos can still contribute to the country’s overall humanitarian efforts.

“[I]t could simply be by introducing beneficial (Philippine) practices, values, or concepts in the hopes that it could be replicated, adopted, or improved by the local community,” he added.

For donations to Timor-Leste’s Bairro Farrol community pantry, the diplomat said those interested may contact organizer Rozilia Esperança Dos Reis. Timor-Leste residents interested in organizing their own community pantries are likewise encouraged to reach out.

Makeshift community pantries popped up across the Philippines in the past days, allowing residents to donate food items and other commodities and also take goods according to their needs.

SOURCE: https://cnnphilippines.com/news/2021/4/22/Timor-Leste-sets-up-first-community-pantry.html?fb