Hope shines through: BingoPlus Foundation delivers solar power to Mindoro

DigiPlus Interactive, through its social development arm, BingoPlus Foundation, has reinforced its commitment to disaster resilience and sustainable livelihood by supporting vulnerable communities in South Luzon. The foundation recently provided solar energy solutions to the Mangyan Indigenous People (IP) community in Mindoro and financial assistance to families affected by Super Typhoon Kristine in the Bicol Region.

Residents of Manalansay, Oriental Mindoro, celebrated as BingoPlus Foundation delivered solar-powered lights and generators to the remote Mangyan community. The donation responded to a request from the local farmers' group, Samahan ng Magbubukid ng Manaul (SaMa Manaul), which sought assistance to address longstanding electricity shortages.

For years, the lack of electricity has hindered economic activities and disrupted daily life. Residents relied on daylight for handicraft production, while children struggled to study in dim conditions, often using a furnace or flashlights for illumination.

"Even if I want to finish my work, I can’t because I can only work until there is light. As a mother, it really pains me to see my kids not being able to accomplish their requirements in school because it’s too dark to work at night," said Liza Gayot, a long-time resident of Manaul.

"After 20 years, we finally have lights in our own homes," she added.

Supporting typhoon victims in Bicol

In addition to its sustainable energy initiatives, BingoPlus Foundation fulfilled its P37-million pledge to assist families impacted by Super Typhoon Kristine. From January to February 2025, the foundation, in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office V, provided financial assistance to 74 bereaved families across Camarines Sur, Albay, Sorsogon, Catanduanes, and Masbate.

The DSWD also contributed family food packs, drinking water, hygiene kits, and first aid supplies. During a turnover ceremony in Pili, Camarines Sur, DSWD Assistant Secretary for Regional Operations Paul Ledesma and DSWD Bicol Regional Director Norman Laurio joined the event to oversee the aid distribution.

"Our hearts go out to all the families affected by Typhoon Kristine," said Angela Camins-Wieneke, Executive Director of BingoPlus Foundation. "While the typhoon has since passed, the loss of loved ones — many of whom were breadwinners — is an additional burden to bear in the journey to recovery."

The P250,000 financial assistance provided to each affected family will support house repairs, education for orphaned children, and household expenses as they rebuild their lives.

DigiPlus and BingoPlus Foundation continue to promote long-term disaster preparedness and sustainable development in vulnerable communities, demonstrating their commitment to fostering resilience and recovery.