BingoPlus Foundation rolls out livelihood and disaster aid in South Luzon

DigiPlus Interactive, through its social development arm BingoPlus Foundation, extended support to disaster-affected communities in South Luzon through its KabuhayanPLUS program, delivering both sustainable energy solutions and post-disaster financial assistance.

In Oriental Mindoro, the Foundation brought solar lights and generators to Mangyan Indigenous People (IP) communities in Barangay Manalansay. The initiative responded to a request from the local group Samahan ng Magbubukid ng Manaul (SaMa Manaul), which cited the need for electricity to support livelihood and education.

Residents shared that the absence of electricity in their upland community had long hampered productivity and made it difficult for children to study after dark.

“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, who’s been a long-time resident of Manaul.

“I’m thankful for BingoPlus Foundation because you are the light of our life and home,” she added. “After 20 years, we finally have lights in our own homes."

Meanwhile, in the Bicol Region, the Foundation concluded the rollout of financial assistance to families affected by Super Typhoon Kristine, fulfilling part of its P37 million pledge announced in November 2024.

From January to February 2025, BingoPlus Foundation worked with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office V to assist 74 families from Camarines Sur, Albay, Sorsogon, Catanduanes, and Masbate. Each family received P250,000 in aid.

The DSWD also provided food packs, clean drinking water, hygiene items, and first aid kits. A turnover ceremony held in Pili, Camarines Sur was attended by DSWD Assistant Secretary for Regional Operations Paul Ledesma and Bicol Regional Director Norman Laurio.

“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.”

According to beneficiaries, the financial assistance will be used not only for house repairs, but also to sustain the education of orphaned children and daily household needs of families left behind.