Food sales low 3 days before ECQ

There are few shoppers in markets in Metro Manila 3 days before the start of enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) in the region.

At Mega Q Mart, sales are still sluggish, according to vendors. Aside from the rainy season, it is said that many consumers do not have enough stock to buy food.

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“Sa ngayon medyo matumal, gawa na rin ng ulan tapos ‘yung iba nagtitipid din po halos wala na ring money ‘yung mga tao ngayon eh kasi gawa ng magla-lockdown pa. Halos wala na pong kita, ganu’n, medyo hirap na sa budget,” said Dave Pinlac, vendor.

Some consumers said that they were more scared the first time Metro Manila was subjected to ECQ than now, and they are complacent that their relatives will still be able to go out to shop if there is a need.

“Mas konti ngayon, mas natakot kami noong una pero ngayon, ewan ko kung gaano kahigpit pero mas marami ang na-stock namin noon… Ngayon kaunti ang budget ng ano namin ngayon,” said Thelma Palisoc, consumer.

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Some, on the other hand, have used emergency savings to cover their shopping needs.

“Kahit walang pera, ‘yung tinatago nilalabas ko na para hindi na ako labas nang labas, nag-stock na ako ng pagkain. Mahirap naman kasing umasa sa ayuda ng gobyerno po eh,” said Rubylyn Hilario, consumer.

Food sales low 3 days before ECQ

The Department of Agriculture (DA) has ensured that there is enough food for NCR residents this ECQ.

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According to the DA, those who bring food and agricultural products to NCR can still use their food passes or IATF ID issued last year.

On Monday night, President Rodrigo Duterte approved the budget needed for the cash  or “ayuda” allotted for 80% of the population of the National Capital Region during the implementation of  on  6, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go said.

The cash aid will be P1,000 per individual or a maximum of P4,000 per household under the low-income group.

The cash aid will be given to at least 10.8 million people in Metro Manila, 80% of the 13-million population in NCR.

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