Calasiao: The Calasiao municipal government in Pangasinan distributed food products from its community pantry to over 10,000 marginalized families on Monday as part of this year's town fiesta.

According to Philippines News Agency, instead of the usual merry-making activities, the local government, along with department heads and barangay councils, decided to organize a community pantry. This initiative was announced by Mayor Patrick Caramat during an interview on Monday. The councils of the 24 villages selected 33 percent of the total population, primarily including farmers, fisherfolk, solo parents, persons with disabilities, and families with children with special needs, as recipients.

Each recipient was provided with a reusable bag containing food items such as rice, vegetables, a choice between pork or chicken, eggs, milkfish, smoked fish, the town's signature puto (steamed rice cake), other native delicacies, and condiments. This distribution adhered to the town's no-plastic ordinance.

The distribution began at 4 a.m., with products sourced from local farmers and vendors at the public market. The reusable bags were produced by a local manufacturer. Mayor Caramat emphasized the dual benefits of the initiative, stating, "We were able to help vendors, local producers, the transport sector, and families in need from different sectors."

In addition to the community pantry, other activities during the town fiesta included a medical and dental mission, free circumcision, and free legal services.