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ZAMBOANGA CITY (MindaNews / 18 November) — Volunteers supporting the candidacy of Vice President Leni Robredo for President handed over hundreds of pink puto (steamed rice cake) to vendors in five public markets here on Wednesday morning, November 17.
“We are doing this every Wednesday. This is in support of Leni’s thrust on freedom from hunger and COVID-19. Our market vendors and drivers lost their income and business due to the prolonged lockdowns and inefficient pandemic response. Hence, we are reaching out to them,” said Chester Tolentino, head of Team Leni Robredo-Zamboanga City.
The group went to five public markets namely, LB Wet Market, Sta. Cruz Market, Bagsakan Center, and Guiwan Aderes Flea Market.
Dr. Anton Mari Lim, a supporter, said, “We were challenged by VP Leni to show love specially to the marginalized sector. Kindness and love goes a long way specially during these difficult times. As her volunteers we want to “Be Like Leni” and be there for them. Our Kakampinks are practicing random acts of kindness not just every Wednesday but every day!”
Alkene Fermo said she and her wife Victoria made the puto “because we want to. Not because someone requested it or commanded but it is our own volition. In our own little way we may contribute a little in what we firmly believe in.”
“I believe that each one has the capability to make a statement and promote a particular advocacy that he or she believes in. It is important to create an avenue where one can voice out what he or she is aiming for,” Fermo said.
“A sense of volunteerism is essential in order for it to be known. A simple handing out of food like a pink puto or a pink pandesal can create a ripple effect of showing kindness and compassion to different people like a tricycle or jeepney drivers and to a person driving Mercedes Benz. It is always good to be kind and to give. Give them something to think about,” he added. (Frencie Carreon/MindaNews)
