Manila seniors get 150,000 cans of milk

MANILA, Philippines — The Manila government will distribute 150,000 cans of milk to senior citizens as part of the city’s aid package during the enhanced community quarantine.

Mayor Isko Moreno said the Ensure milk would help boost the immune system of senior citizens amid the threat posed by the COVID-19 Delta variant.

“The elderly are among the most vulnerable during this pandemic kaya kailangan po talaga na mabigyan sila ng karagdagang tulong in terms of vitamins and supplements,” Moreno said.

The local government allotted P29,850,000 for the milk procurement.

The distribution of milk will run until Aug. 20.

Meanwhile, Moreno led yesterday the groundbreaking of the San Lazaro Residences, the fourth housing project of the city government, at the corner of Alvarez and Quiricada streets in Sta. Cruz.

Moreno said the construction of the San Lazaro Residences was in line with his promise to give affordable homes to Manileños, especially the poor.

“While we are facing the challenges of the pandemic, we will continue to fulfill the dreams of each Manileño to own a house. This will change the lives of 382 families,” Moreno said.

He was joined by engineer Armand Andres, architect Ely Balmoris and city public health director Malou Santos during the groundbreaking.

The 20-story San Lazaro Residences will have 382 units, 132 parking slots, a health center, a swimming pool, function rooms and a roof deck.

“Based on our in-city vertical housing program, there will be no squatters,” Moreno said.

The other housing projects of the city government are the Basecommunity, Tondominium 1 and 2 and the Binondominium.

Lacuna catches COVID

Meanwhile, Manila Vice Mayor Honey Lacuna announced on Sunday that she tested positive for COVID-19.

Lacuna, a physician who is fully vaccinated against COVID, said it was unfortunate that she contracted the virus despite observing precautions and strictly following health protocols.

“I would like to inform you that I tested positive for COVID-19. Because of this, I have to take a rest to recuperate,” she said. “Let us all be cautious and strictly follow the mandated safety protocols.”

Moreno, who had close contact with Lacuna, tested negative for the virus.