BDO Foundation Delivers Relief Goods to Over 12,000 Typhoon Carina Victims

Distribution of relief packs through one of BDO Foundation’s partners, Caritas Manila. (Photo courtesy of Caritas Manila’s official Facebook page)

In July 2024, Typhoon Carina swept across the Philippines, leaving a trail of devastation, particularly in the National Capital Region (NCR) and nearby provinces. The torrential rains caused widespread flooding, submerging homes, displacing thousands of families, and disrupting the daily lives of many. The calamity struck hard, especially in the provinces of Bulacan, Pampanga, Ilocos Sur, Rizal, and Metro Manila, where communities were left grappling with the aftermath of one of the most destructive storms in recent history.

The disaster underscored the importance of timely and coordinated relief efforts. In the wake of such overwhelming destruction, BDO Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of BDO Unibank, rose to the occasion, providing immediate assistance to those affected by the typhoon.

BDO Foundation’s Rapid Response: A Lifeline for Victims

As news of Typhoon Carina's impact spread, BDO Foundation quickly mobilized its resources, demonstrating its steadfast commitment to disaster relief. Partnering with the Tanging Yaman Foundation, dioceses and parishes, local government units (LGUs), and volunteers from BDO and BDO Network Bank, the foundation efficiently distributed 12,350 relief packs to over 12,000 families across 36 barangays in Luzon.

The relief efforts were concentrated in areas that bore the brunt of the flooding, including the cities and municipalities of Bulacan (Malolos, Calumpit, Bocaue, Hagonoy, Meycauayan, and Obando), Pampanga (Macabebe and Masantol), Ilocos Sur (Vigan), Rizal, and Metro Manila. These communities, which experienced severe flooding and displacement, received the support they desperately needed to begin the long road to recovery.

Essential Relief Packs for Immediate Needs

Understanding the urgent need for basic supplies, BDO Foundation prepared and distributed relief packs designed to meet the immediate needs of the affected families. Each pack contained essential food items such as rice, canned goods, and bottled drinking water. These provisions were critical in ensuring that families had access to basic nourishment during a time when food was scarce and access to clean water was limited.

In addition to food and water, the relief packs included hygiene kits to help families maintain cleanliness and reduce the risk of disease outbreaks in the aftermath of the disaster. BDO Foundation’s holistic approach to disaster relief underscores its commitment to not only addressing immediate needs but also promoting the overall health and well-being of those affected.

The Power of Partnerships in Disaster Relief

BDO Foundation’s ability to provide swift and effective assistance is a testament to the power of partnerships. Collaborating with organizations like Tanging Yaman Foundation and various dioceses and parishes, as well as working closely with LGUs, enabled the foundation to ensure that relief goods reached even the most isolated and heavily impacted communities.

The involvement of BDO and BDO Network Bank employees further strengthened the relief efforts. These volunteers played a crucial role in the packing and distribution of relief packs, exemplifying the spirit of bayanihan—a uniquely Filipino concept of communal unity and cooperation. Their dedication and hard work were instrumental in making the relief operations a success.

Looking Beyond Relief: BDO Foundation’s Long-Term Commitment

While providing immediate relief is essential, BDO Foundation recognizes that the road to recovery is a long and challenging journey. The foundation is committed to supporting the long-term recovery of the communities affected by Typhoon Carina. This commitment includes exploring opportunities to aid in the rehabilitation of vital infrastructure such as schools, health centers, and community facilities, which are crucial for the sustained well-being of the affected populations.

BDO Foundation’s long-term recovery efforts also involve working closely with local communities and government agencies to develop and implement programs that will help families rebuild their homes and restore their livelihoods. By focusing on resilience and sustainability, the foundation aims to ensure that these communities are better prepared for future disasters.

A Message of Hope and Resilience

BDO Foundation president Mario Deriquito shared a heartfelt message of solidarity with the victims of Typhoon Carina: “BDO Foundation hopes that through this simple act of kindness, we are able to show our solidarity to our kababayans and to help in giving them hope as they bounce back from this calamity.”

This message resonates deeply with the core values of BDO Foundation, which has always prioritized the welfare of the Filipino people in its initiatives. By providing not just material aid but also emotional and moral support, the foundation plays a crucial role in helping communities recover and rebuild after disasters.

Enhancing Disaster Preparedness for the Future

As the Philippines continues to face the threat of natural disasters, BDO Foundation remains committed to enhancing its disaster preparedness and response strategies. The foundation understands that effective disaster response requires not only timely action but also careful planning and coordination.

BDO Foundation is actively working to strengthen its disaster response framework by investing in training programs for its employees and partners, and by collaborating with both local and international organizations. These efforts are aimed at improving the foundation’s capacity to respond to disasters swiftly and efficiently, ensuring that communities receive the support they need when they need it most.

BDO Foundation’s response to Typhoon Carina exemplifies its unwavering commitment to supporting Filipino communities in times of crisis. Through its comprehensive relief efforts, strategic partnerships, and focus on long-term recovery, the foundation continues to be a beacon of hope and resilience for those affected by disasters.

As we look towards the future, it is clear that the efforts of organizations like BDO Foundation are critical in building a more resilient and disaster-ready Philippines. By fostering a culture of preparedness, compassion, and cooperation, we can ensure that our communities are equipped to face and overcome the challenges posed by natural calamities.