THE Army’s 4th Infantry Division said the “bayanihan” spirit that inspired community pantries in parts of the country has caught up with concerned residents and volunteers here in Cagayan de Oro City. Major Rodulfo Cordero, 4ID public affairs chief said a convergence community pantry opened Saturday  drawing hundreds of residents who continue to grapple with the impact of the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic. “The 4ID, through its Task Force Oro, supported the community pantry set-up by the Brotherhood of Christian Businessmen and Professionals (BCBP) in Barangay Macasandig,” said Cordero. He said the initiative took off shortly before 8 a.m. amid outpouring of support from  barangay officials, the city police and the army personnel. “The 4ID will assist and help various community pantries that would appear across northern Mindanao and the Caraga region amid the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Cordero. Jeremy Cabrera, one of the organizers, said that their sole purpose of putting up a community pantry is to help the residents who are struggling to live during this time of the pandemic. "Residents coming from the neighboring barangays are also welcome to visit the pantry and get what they need or share what they can," Cabrera said. The recipients expressed their gratitude to the organizers who did not hesitate to share their blessings with those in need. "In these very challenging times, simple and noble deeds of volunteerism such as this deserves not just the full support of your Army Troopers, but also by all agencies of government,” said  Task Force Oro head Lt. Col. Anshary Pumbaya. Pumbaya ensured the public that the same support will be extended to organizers of other community pantries. “They can reach us through the hotline of 4ID - 09176886658." Pumbaya said. Meanwhile, Barangay Macasandig officials led by Barangay chairman Aaron Neri assured that standard health protocols are being strictly followed to avoid the spread of the covid-19 virus. (Ben Balce)