Flood Victims in the Philippines Receive Assistance

Following the recent state of calamity in Northern Samar caused by persistent heavy rains from a passing shear line, the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) Philippines and Adventist Community Services (ACS) distributed much-needed supplies to many of the flood victims.

In a recent video update shared on the ADRA Philippine Facebook page, the ADRA team carried out a thorough assessment to gauge the magnitude of the damage caused by the devastating flooding that took place November 21 and pinpoint the most pressing needs of people affected by it. Once more, the Adventist organizations are demonstrating their commitment to providing immediate relief to affected communities, regional church leaders said.

In a series of courtesy meetings, ADRA and ACS engaged with key local officials, including governor Edwin Ongchuan and vice-governor Clarence Dato of Northern Samar, and mayor Francisco Rosales III of Catarman. These meetings aimed to foster collaboration and ensure a synchronized response to the crisis, leaders reported.

A total of 1,120 households in the municipalities of Catarman, Mapanas, and Gamay in Northern Samar have received essential food packs, thanks to the combined efforts of ADRA Philippines, ACS, and the Samar Mission, in partnership with the Central Philippine Union Conference of the Adventist Church.

ADRA Philippines reported that each food pack distributed includes 10 kilograms (about 22 pounds) of rice, 2 kilograms (4.4 pounds) of mung beans, three cans of sardines, and three cans of tuna. It also includes two packs of biscuits or crackers and a liter of cooking oil.

The collaborative efforts of the organizations involved made it possible for this crucial aid to be delivered quickly, aiming to lessen the immediate hardships endured by families affected by the flooding, leaders said.

Highlighting the spirit of “Bayanihan” at its finest, volunteers from the Catarman Seventh-day Adventist Church played a vital role in packing and delivering the goods. Their dedication and hard work serve as a powerful example of a community coming together in the face of adversity, leaders said.

“We are grateful for the support from ADRA Philippines, ACS, and our local partners in this critical time,” Governor Ongchuan said. “The generosity and unity displayed by our volunteers exemplify the essence of community resilience.”

ADRA and ACS remain on the ground, responding to the ongoing needs of the affected families since the flooding. Their continuous presence and collaborative initiatives underscore the importance of a swift and coordinated response to support communities in the process of recovery and rebuilding, leaders said.

The original version of this story was posted on the Southern Asia-Pacific Division news site.