Cebuano communities receive needed assistance

The memory of the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck Northern Cebu on 30 September remains fresh, but for the BingoPlus Foundation, it spurred an immediate and arduous relief mission, delivering P6 million in support from its parent company, DigiPlus Interactive Corp. and BingoPlus.

The mission, conducted under the Foundation’s BayanihanPlus program, involved distributing aid to an estimated 56,000 residents across six municipalities in Northern Cebu between 5 and 23 October.

It proved to be one of the most challenging the Manila-based Foundation team and local Cebu employee volunteers had ever faced. They contended with aftershocks, heavy rains, impassable roads and damaged infrastructure. The difficulties peaked on 13 October when volunteers experienced a 5.8 magnitude aftershock during the complex relief efforts.

Despite the hazards, the team’s resolve to deliver relief goods and “provide hope” was unwavering.

“I learned that serving others is not about how easy the journey is, but how willing your heart is to keep going for those who need you the most,” said Jem Tumbaga, BingoPlus Foundation communications officer. “Despite the bad weather, rough roads and the scary aftershocks we experienced in Cebu, my commitment to serve others remains unshaken.”

To navigate the challenging terrain and ensure efficient distribution, the Foundation collaborated with local BingoPlus branches, local government units, the Philippine Army 53rd Engineering Brigade, the Philippine Accessible Disability Services (PADS), and supply chain networks. Aid was delivered barangay (village) to barangay across the six affected municipalities.

Nino Mangubat, the focal person of PADS in Borbon, highlighted the difficulty of access, especially in areas like Tagnucan where roads were severely affected.

“Now, this aid given by the BingoPlus Foundation is really a huge help for the persons with disabilities here in Borbon... we are making every effort to ensure that all the aid given by BingoPlus is delivered house-to-house to the members,” Mangubat said in a local statement, extending his gratitude to the Foundation.

Angela Camins-Wieneke, BingoPlus Foundation executive director, stressed the long-term commitment. “This P6-million support from DigiPlus and BingoPlus represents an immediate lifeline for tens of thousands of individuals who lost their homes, livelihoods, and some even their loved ones,” she said.

The Foundation confirmed it will continue to work with partners to assess the changing needs of the affected communities as the complex recovery progresses.