RC Makati Responds to Typhoon Opong Victims in Masbate

More than a week after Typhoon Opong struck Samar and nearby provinces, the devastation remains visible — electricity is still out in many areas, debris from damaged homes and fallen trees line the roads, and countless families continue to struggle to rebuild their lives.

On October 4, RC Makati Disaster Relief Chair Nicky Ramos and CoS Ron braved an exhausting 14-hour land journey and a 3-hour ferry ride from Masbate to reach the affected communities. They joined forces with the RC Masbate, led by Pres. Mark Lawrence Sia, and other Area 4 Bicol Clubs under the leadership of DGN Japps Callos, to deliver much-needed assistance to families severely affected by the typhoon.

RC Makati brought 500 sets of mats and blankets, which were distributed to families in Barangay Pinamarbuhan, Mobo Municipality. These simple yet essential items provided comfort and warmth to those who had lost so much.

RC Masbate and the Area 4 Clubs also extended additional relief, including rice, food packs, bread, hygiene kits, and medicines, offering renewed hope to the community during this difficult time.

Witnessing the situation firsthand in Masbate was both humbling and inspiring. The gratitude of the people was overwhelming — many residents shared that this was the first time they had received any relief goods, and the first time a Rotary Club from outside their district had joined a local relief mission.

Thank you to all Rotarians and partners for your continued generosity and commitment — truly embodying the Spirit of Rotary: Service Above Self.

P.S. Beyond Masbate, RC Makati continues to extend help to other areas in need. The Club has provided ₱30,000 in assistance to fire victims in Davao through its brother club, RC Davao, with distribution scheduled soon.

For the recent earthquake in Cebu, RC Makati has also committed ₱150,000 worth of portable water filters in partnership with RC Cebu, to ensure affected families have access to safe drinking water.