The city government is readying PHP291 million for the purchase of canned goods, rice, and other necessities as the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) threat continues.

“What is important is that we are ready with a standby appropriation,” Mayor Jerry P. Treñas said during a press conference on Monday after his meeting with the city government’s finance committee.

The fund will be sourced from the city’s surplus fund for 2019.

Part of the fund will also be provided as assistance to barangays, which are helping prepare relief goods and run some 240 community kitchens.

“Compared with other LGUs (local government units), the city is ahead in terms of preparations. That is why very early on, we have provided assistance and early on, we have 240 community kitchens,” Treñas said.

Meanwhile, he called on barangays to make use of their calamity fund, saying the City Hall is open if they have questions regarding these funds.

Treñas said the city is taking care of about 70,000 households daily, excluding the middle and upper-middle classes who could provide for their own food.

Iloilo City has an estimated 120,000 households and 40 percent, or 48,000 families, belong to the upper and middle classes, he said.

Treñas sought the understanding of those who have yet to receive assistance, assuring that the city is doing its best.

He also called for assistance from the national government, particularly the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

Treñas acknowledged the help from the private sector, individuals, and organizations, such as the PHP50,000 donation from the Regional Trial Court judges and PHP25,000 from the Municipal Trial Court judges he received on Monday.

The donation, he said, will be used to purchase goods as the city government continues to release assistance.

Treñas said he is considering to provide the PHP323,000 donation from the Commission on Audit 6 (Western Visayas) employees and retirees for the needs of the West Visayas State University Medical Center. (PNA)