As the heightened alert continues at the Taal Volcano in Batangas province, Filipinos across the nation have kept vigil with the evacuees who fled their homes by providing for their needs through relief campaigns.
Reports on television, radio, newspapers, and news feeds on social media and the internet show how various sectors – from ordinary people, celebrities, organized groups, private and public agencies have banded together to gather the basic living necessities for thousands of evacuees.
The homeless victims of the eruption have sought shelter in public buildings, churches, schools, and even private homes and offices. The provinces of Batangas and Cavite have both declared a state of calamity to allow the government funds to flow and provide assistance to the victims.
Provisions continue to pour in either direct to the evacuees or the drop-off centers set up by the province of Batangas. But the question on the minds of everyone is – how long can the aid sustain the needs of thousands of displaced families?
Answer may come from outside the Philippines as overseas Filipinos have made calls to support the relief drive for help.
South Korea
The Pinoy Iskolars sa Korea (PIKO) started a donation drive for the victims immediately after news of the eruption spread on January 12. The relief goods and funds are being accepted until January 19.
Italy
In Italy, Filipino chaplain Fr. Ricky Gente organized a “Lugaw for Charity” event at the at Basilica di Sta. Pudenziana in Via Urbana, Roma. His call was echoed by Italy-based ABS-CBN correspondent Jacke Vega.
New Zealand
KiwiNoys, the Pinoys in New Zealand, asked for Filipinos to exhibit the generous Bayanihan spirit for donations. One channel is eKwento mo host Rene Nonoy Molina.
Global
Los Angeles-based nonprofit organization Josiah Zion Foundation is working with Pinoy Seoul’s Obra Incorporated to raise funds from around the world to send masks and other basic necessities for the victims of the eruption.
TELL US in the comments below if you know of other relief drives that need support.
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