The Philippine government has recognized the role of the Catholic Church in extending help to the poor affected by the lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Presidential spokesman Harry Roque said the government expresses its gratitude to the Church for providing aid to the people in these hard times.
“We are thankful because reports have reached us that [the Church] shelter stranded workers and front-liners, and provide food to the needy,” said Roque.
Roque, who is also spokesman of the Inter-Agency task Force on Emerging Infectious Disease, admitted that government funds are not enough to help everyone.
He said the national government is already seeking the help of the private sector and other government agencies to bring aid to affected communities.
Roque called on the Church to coordinate with local government units in its humanitarian relief operations.
“If we have coordination with the local government units, they will be the one who will tell the national police to let you in,” he said.
