Between late October and mid-November 2024, the Philippines faced a relentless onslaught of six consecutive tropical cyclones. Among them, Typhoon Kristine (internationally known as Trami) stood out as one of the most devastating. Making landfall with destructive force, the typhoon claimed 151 lives and disrupted the lives of around 8.8 million Filipinos, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The Bicol region bore the brunt of Typhoon Kristine, with severe damage reported to agriculture and infrastructure. Over 37,795 farmers and fishermen lost their livelihoods. Key facilities sustained extensive damage, further compounding the challenges faced by the affected communities.
Amidst heavy rains and the overwhelming need for aid, SSSIO Philippines stepped forward to provide relief. The organization collaborated with the Missionaries of Charity, whose Antipolo-based sisters offered their facility in Naga to facilitate relief efforts.
Within a week, the volunteers prepared 500 grocery bags filled with rice, blankets, toiletries, slippers, clothes, and other essential items. A volunteer with his office based in Naga arranged for a van to transport the relief goods from Manila to Naga — a journey of approximately 11 hours.
Upon reaching Naga, the Missionaries of Charity Sisters distributed the grocery bags to those most impacted by heavy rains. On the 15th of November, 14 sisters/nuns from the Missionaries of Charity, Bicol went to Gainza, a town in Camarines Sur. They attended mass in the morning at the local parish and were joined by around 60 youth. The volunteers then brought the bags to eight different barangays (local territory or district) and went house to house, carrying bags of about 7 to 8 kg each. They also hired jeepneys, tricycles, and even small boats to visit areas still affected by flooding. As the people of Bicol begin the long journey of recovery and rebuilding, these acts of kindness and solidarity serve as beacons of hope.
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