Vico Sotto Sends Message To COVID-19 Exploiters
VICO SOTTO TO CORONAVIRUS EXPLOITERS – Pasig Mayor Vico Sotto sent a clear message to profiteers and scammers who exploit fellow citizens amidst the COVID-19 crisis.
Ever since the first confirmed coronavirus case in the Philippines was announced, hundreds of “hoarding” cases have been reported. This left thousands of Filipinos with no choice but to buy grossly overpriced products in fear for their health.
In some cases, an ordinary bottle of alcohol usually costing 30-50 pesos was priced at P500-P700 for a bottle. Similar cases have been reported with medical supplies such as surgical face masks.
In lieu of this, Pasig Mayor Vico Sotto made a statement on Thursday. He said Pasig authorities would not hesitate to arrest anyone trying to exploit the COVID-19 pandemic for a profit.
According to an article from ABS-CBN, the city government recently arrested an individual who made fake IDs used to claim food coupons meant for public school students.
In light of this, Sotto had this to say:
Hindi maiiwasan may loko-loko, mandurugas. Huhulihin namin kayo, ipapakulong namin kayo
(We cannot avoid having exploitative individuals. We will catch you, we will jail you)
The 30-year-old -Mayor added that they would put out 110 percent effort even though officials are tired. Furthermore, he urged the people of Pasig to show their discipline.
As per the report, Sotto stated that Pasig was going to roll-out P1 Billion cash aid to be given to residents. Additionally, health workers in the city would be given a special risk allowance equivalent to 25% of their salary and a daily hazard pay of P500.
Finally, Sotto addressed that the city needs to test around 200 individuals being monitored for COVID-19. He said that it aims to complete the tests next week in partnership with “The Medical City”.
