The Las Tunas Business Group for Commerce announced on Tuesday that the distribution of a pound of chicken has begun. This allocation is exclusively reserved for children under 13, seniors over 65, and pregnant women as part of the "recovery efforts" following Hurricane Melissa's passage.
According to an official statement on Facebook, the chicken is now available at local markets in the municipalities of Las Tunas, Puerto Padre, and Colombia. The distribution is expected to extend to the rest of the region in the coming days.
The authorities emphasize that the sale will be managed through the rationed commerce system and is exclusively for the prioritized groups.
Periódico 26 has validated this information, highlighting that the distribution is targeted at the municipalities most impacted by the hurricane.
In the Manatí municipality, the Victuro Acosta López meat processing plant confirmed to local radio that the chicken is available at urban butcher shops and in the areas of Dumañuecos and Puerto Manatí. The distribution to rural areas will occur soon.
Commercial units have also reminded eligible consumers to purchase the chicken on the distribution day, as failing to do so will result in losing the allocation.
This measure has sparked dissatisfaction among the residents of Las Tunas, who view it as inadequate and exclusionary.
Social media users have voiced their discontent, describing the allocation as a "handout" amid the country's ongoing food crisis.
"What about everyone else? As always, the authorities keep the largest share for themselves," wrote Luis Ángel G. Hipolit.
"What are those aged 14 to 64 supposed to eat? Do we have to wait until we're 65 to buy chicken? We'll continue to pay exorbitant prices," commented Marcia Labrada Suárez. Yamelin Velázquez added, "It seems those aged 14 to 64 weren't affected by the cyclone."
Roberto Eliades Bermúdez Tamayo questioned, "How do they expect my 4-year-old and my 75-year-old father to survive on a pound of chicken?" Ivon Salazar Moro echoed the sentiment of many, stating, "It's always the same story, handouts for the people and privileges for those in power."
Public Concerns About Limited Chicken Distribution in Las Tunas
Who is eligible to receive the chicken allocation in Las Tunas?
The chicken allocation is exclusively for children under 13, pregnant women, and seniors over 65.
How is the chicken being distributed in Las Tunas?
The distribution is managed through the rationed commerce system in the municipalities affected by Hurricane Melissa.
What are the public reactions to the chicken distribution?
The measure has been met with criticism and dissatisfaction, with many viewing it as insufficient and excluding large segments of the population.