MANILA (RVA News): Following a devastating fire in Addition Hills, Mandaluyong City, Philippines, pn May 25, left 41 families without homes, Caritas Manila moved quickly to assist affected residents who were left homeless.
According tho the Department of Social Welfare and Development, 160 people were impacted and 14 houses were totally damaged.
Father Anton C.T. Pascual, executive director of Caritas Manila and president of Radio Veritas, visited the area and assess the needs of those affected.
Father Pascual’s visit provided both spiritual comfort and practical assistance.
Through Caritas Manila, he facilitated the delivery of essential supplies, such as food packs, hygiene kits, jerry cans, mats, and blankets, to the families in evacuation centres.
Elsie Sarmiento, the programme coordinator for the Caritas Manila Damayan [compassion] programme at the Sacred Heart Parish in Mandaluyong City, expressed her gratitude for the quick response and emphasised the significance of ongoing public support for those in need of assistance after disasters.
“We request your continued assistance for those in need, like those here in Addition Hills. Your help enables us to support our fellow citizens in their time of need. We’re grateful, and we hope you can further extend your help. Thanks to Caritas Manila and the sponsors who are helping,” Sarmiento said in a statement to Radio Veritas 846.
Father Pascual responded, “The Church is always present to convey God’s love, especially to victims of natural and man-made disasters such as fires, floods, and earthquakes.”
Father Pascual urged everyone to pray for and support Caritas Manila in its efforts to help many more people in need.
As we celebrate the 500 years of Christianity in the Philippines. The Chaplaincy to Filipino Migrants organises an on-line talk every Tuesday at 9.00pm. You can join us at:
https://www.Facebook.com/CFM-Gifted-to-give-101039001847033
“By supporting Caritas Manila, we can assist young people in their education, provide mutual aid in health matters, support victims of calamities, and offer prisoners a chance at rehabilitation,” he said.
The rapid and extensive response from the organisation underscores its unwavering commitment to supporting communities in times of crisis.
Father Pascual also pledged immediate assistance to the affected families in rebuilding their homes, showcasing their long-term dedication to their recovery.
In 2023, Caritas Manila committed over 60 million pesos [US$1.02 million] to aiding those suffering from natural disasters, providing education to underprivileged students, and helping those suffering from malnutrition.
