World Vision highlights child protection and peacebuilding in the Marawi Week of Peace

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Child-focused NGO World Vision Development Foundation conducted a series of child protection and peace-building activities during the celebration of the Marawi Week of Peace, spearheaded by the Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur.

World Vision provided school bags, notebooks and pens with learning materials promoting child protection to at least 1,679 students from five public schools.

In partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd), the Ministry of Basic Higher Technical and Madaris Education and the Marawi Operation Center, World Vision also conducted mental health and psychosocial support activities for 90 parents and 60 children.

Rommel V. Fuerte, World Vision’s National Director in the Philippines shared, “It has been a great honor for us to work with TFBM, the city government of Marawi, and all government agencies and partners towards building back a better Marawi, where children can thrive and fulfill their dreams”. Fuerte encouraged everyone to achieve hope, joy, and justice for all children.

To help families augment their daily food needs, promote nutrition, and maintain good health especially of children, World Vision also distributed 400 packs of vegetable seeds such as eggplant, pechay, okra, and string beans to supported barangays.

Handwashing facilities were also constructed in five World Vision-assisted communities, including one that was launched opened during the Week of Peace in an effort to also fight the COVID-19 pandemic through access to water and hygiene facilities.

It has been four years since World Vision started its emergency and recovery response and other child-focused programs to complement the government’s efforts and assist thousands of affected civilians and displaced families in the aftermath of the violent city-wide armed clash which massively devastated Marawi in May 2017.

World Vision, globally, also observes the United Nations’ World Refugee Day to celebrate the strength and courage of people who have been forced to flee their home countries or displaced internally, to escape conflict for safety and protection. World Refugee Day is an occasion to build empathy and understanding for their plight and to recognize their resilience in rebuilding their lives.

Currently, World Vision implements two projects namely the Urban Child Protection Project and the Marawi Peace and Protection Project-Phase which promotes peacebuilding among the youth, education, child protection in schools and the communities among others. Both projects aim to cover a total of 12 barangays with 6,800 children as target beneficiaries.

About World Vision

World Vision is a global Christian relief, development and advocacy organization dedicated to working with children, families and communities to overcome poverty and injustice. World Vision serves all people, regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, or gender.

UNHCR and UNIQLO return to Marawi for World Humanitarian Day

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On 19 August, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the UN Refugee Agency, and UNIQLO, a global retailer giant, commemorate World Humanitarian Day by distributing clothing to some 750 families displaced by the Marawi conflict. This marks the second visit by the partnership to the besieged city of Marawi.

“Two years after the conflict, while the Philippine Government continues its recovery and rehabilitation efforts, displaced and returned families in Marawi remain facing significant challenges, such as lack of access to basic services and insufficient livelihood opportunities. Today, we honor the world’s humanitarians by joining the affected communities most in need through the provision of humanitarian assistance,” said Shinji Kubo, UNHCR Representative to the Philippines. 

Nearly 2,300 families remain displaced and stay in transitory sites in Marawi City1. In one of the three government-run transitory shelters, UNIQLO joined the commemoration of World Humanitarian Day with UNHCR culminating the event with the distribution of 5,000 pieces of clothing as part of its commitment to helping forcibly displaced people throughout the world. 

Through its innovative All-Product Recycling Initiative and partnership with UNHCR, globally, UNIQLO has distributed 30,290,000 garments in 65 countries and regions. In the Philippines, UNIQLO has donated close to one million items of clothing to families in need in relief efforts for Typhoon Haiyan affected communities in 2014 and for those forcibly displaced by the armed conflict in Zamboanga in 2015. In 2018, two clothing distribution activities were conducted in Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, and Marawi City for Maranao families hosted in evacuation camps and transitory shelters. 

UNHCR and UNIQLO are no strangers to each other as the two organizations have worked in partnership since 2006 to provide life-saving assistance to the most vulnerable. “UNIQLO has been a staunch global humanitarian partner of UNHCR for many years, in many aspects of our work that extends beyond providing clothing. UNIQLO also supports self-reliance and livelihood programs in Asia, enhancing protection and empowerment for the refugees and internally displaced populations,” said Kubo.

Honoring Women Humanitarians 

On the tenth year of commemorating World Humanitarian Day, UNHCR is also honoring the women humanitarians around the world. These individuals play vital roles in every aspect of humanitarian action across the world, making up an estimated 43 percent of the total humanitarian workforce.2 

“Today is profoundly important, as it is the very day that honors aid workers, and reminds the international community of their obligations to protect them, and the life-saving work they do,” said Kubo. “It’s also important to remind the world that a big portion of aid workers are women, whose strength, determination, and perseverance are very much needed on the front lines in some of the world’s most difficult and dangerous settings.” 

UNHCR has been closely working with the Government and the people of the Philippines over the past 30 years, focusing on three pillars: providing durable solutions to refugees in line with the Global Compact on Refugees, ending and reducing statelessness under the #IBELONG campaign, and enhancing a protection environment for the forcibly displaced. In the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, UNHCR co-leads the Protection Working Group under the leadership of the Ministry of Social Services. 

The fighting in Marawi City in 2017 has displaced more than 353,000 people, and to this day, thousands continue to live in displacement. UNHCR remains committed to helping displaced families and communities rebuild their lives with life-saving aid and in rebuilding their lives in safety and in dignity. 

Visit https://donate.unhcr.ph now to help protection internally displaced communities in Mindanao.

LG Honors the Injured Liberators of Marawi with a Donation to the AFP Health Service Command

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On its 30th anniversary, LG donates air conditioners, washers, TVs and a refrigerator to benefit Marawi soldier casualties and other injured soldiers at the Victoriano Luna Medical Center. 

In the spirit of National Heroes Day, LG Electronics reaffirmed its longstanding commitment to providing assistance to the community with a donation-in-kind to the Victoriano Luna Medical Center (VLMC), a government hospital that provides sanctuary and support to injured soldiers, including those who suffered casualties in the Marawi siege.

In a simple ceremony held on August 29 at the AFP Health Service Command, Mr. Inkwun Heo, Managing Director of LG Philippines, handed over ten (10) 1.5 HP Dual Cool Inverter Split Type Air Purifying Deluxe Airconditioners, two (2) 13kg Inverter Top Load Washing Machines, one (1) 24 cu ft Side by Side Refrigerator and ten (10) 43" Smart TVs to Col. Jeffrey Jake Gallenero, Philippine Army MNSA, Chief of Staff, AFP Health Service Command (AFPHSC). Also present were the chiefs of each operating unit and staff of the AFP Health Service Command.

The project was initiated to ease the recovery of the valiant soldiers at the Orthopedic Heroes Ward who sustained injuries in Marawi and other military efforts. Each airconditioner features an independently working Air Purification mode, assuring that the air the patients breathe is clean even when the unit is switched off, and never stale. LG airconditioners also operate at low sound levels to provide better rest and uninterrupted sleep for these wounded soldiers. Along with the Smart TVs, these airconditioning units will bring comfort to patients and their families at the wards, Officers’ Room, and Isolation and Post-recovery rooms. 

Aside from the patients at the Orthopedic Heroes Ward, the hospital staff will also benefit from LG’s donation of washing machines and a refrigerator, which will be placed at the ward comfort rooms and ward pantry, respectively. The Side by Side Refrigerator has multiple cooling air vents that distribute and circulate cool air to every corner of the refrigerator, ensuring that the staff’s and patients’ food are properly cooled and remain fresh, while the 13kg Inverter Top Load Washing Machines have a Turbo Drum feature that enables the most powerful wash and the removal of the toughest hospital stains.

The airconditioners, washing machines and refrigerator are all equipped with the latest inverter technology, ensuring that the medical center enjoys bigger energy savings but with more efficient appliances. 

“LG, through its products, is committed to making an everyday difference in the lives of individuals,” says Mr. Heo. “On its 30th anniversary, LG Philippines is honored to support the injured soldiers of Marawi and the Victoriano Luna Medical Center, and we hope that our small gesture will go far in helping these soldiers on their road to recovery.” 

BGen Augustus H De Villa, Acting Commander AFP Health Service Command (AFPHSC) expressed his fervent gratitude to LG Electronics. “I, together with the staff of the AFP Health Service Command, would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to LG Philippines. This deed of donation signing is a concrete realization that our soldiers’ efforts are greatly recognized by the people they are serving. May you continue supporting our troops as they protect and secure the sovereignty of our nation.” 

Earlier this year, LG donated health kits, comprised of roughly 30,000 personal care products, and 200 computer monitors to 46 public schools in Marawi. These initiatives are part of the company’s goals of promoting products and services that serve the local community. Through its CSR projects, LG will continue to serve the Filipino people by developing—and sharing—technology that cares. 

LG Philippines managing director Mr. Inkwun Heo offers praise and appreciation to Corporal Roy Aquino PA who suffered injuries in the Marawi siege. Looking on is LTC Domingo A Chua Jr (MC) PA, Head Dept of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology at the V Luna Medical Center. 

About LG Electronics Philippines 

LG Electronics Philippines is the Philippine subsidiary of LG Electronics, Inc., a $48 billion global force and technology leader in consumer electronics, home appliances and mobile communications. LG Electronics sells a range of stylish and innovative home entertainment products, mobile phones, home appliances, commercial displays, and air conditioning systems all under LG’s “Life’s Good” marketing theme. For more details on how LG products can help improve your life, visit lg.com/ph, like @LGPhilippines / @LGTVPhilippines / @LGMobilePH on Facebook, and follow @LGPhilippines on Instagram.

PDRF, PCPPI to provide 20, 000-liter Water tanks for Marawi rehabilitation

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Marawi is on its way to recovery. As the efforts continue to revive Lanao Del Sur’s capital after being ravaged by war, private institutions and government organizations are partnering to address the need for water of Maranaos and others in the area.

(L-R) Holding the scale model of the 20,000-liter water tank to be deployed in Marawi is Lanao Del Sur Provincial Information Officer, Salma Jayne Alonto Tamano; Task Force Bangon Marawi Undersecretary, and Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council Secretary General, Falconi Ace Millar; Pepsi-Co Products Philippines Inc. President Samudra Bhattacharya, and Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation President Butch Meily

As the country's major private sector driver and coordinator for disaster resilience, the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF) linked with Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines Inc. (PCPPI) to provide the internally displaced people of Marawi with clean and safe water. PDRF tapped PCPPI to provide 12 cylindrical, 20,000-liter water tanks to various gravely affected barangays across the province. PCPPI will also partner with PDRF to conduct community training on water management and hygiene, as well as initiate various programs for the holistic, socio-psychological recovery of the Maranaos.

In full support of this partnership is Atty. Falconi Millar, Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council Secretary General, who was present during the signing ceremony.

Millar also serves as Undersecretary of Task Force Bangon Marawi—the inter-agency task force group of the government dedicated to the recovery, reconstruction, and rehabilitation of Marawi and other affected localities.

“Much has been done by Task Force Bangon Marawi, yet much is still left to be done,” said Millar. “In the evacuation centers, we have 1,248 families as of last week while in ground zero about 10, 000 families are living there. There are about 12, 000 households who are currently home-based living with relatives, however they still want to return to their households. We are targeting the groundbreaking for the most affected area of Marawi for the last week of June. We are working double time.”

The Undersecretary underlined that PDRF was one of the first to send recovery teams to Marawi, and that with their partnership with PCPPI he sees an evolution of responsible corporate citizenship in the private sector.

“Everyone is being called to be a responsible corporate citizen. In trying times like these it now becomes a duty of every corporation to lend a helping hand,” Undersecretary Millar said.

The collaboration between PDRF, PCPPI, Task Force Bangon Marawi and the Lanao del Sur government helps mobilize the next phase of rehabilitation efforts in the war-stricken area, beginning with the need for water.

"Water is a critical need and a fundamental right," said Butch Meily, President of the PDRF. "It's been a year since the siege of Marawi, and until now more than 70, 000 families still have to live with the hardship brought about by the war. Today we are even more determined to turn the tide by providing them with the water they direly need." 

The PDRF implements an eight-cluster system model for private sector coordination aimed to provide a more robust platform for collaboration and interoperability with key partners in disaster preparation, response, and rehabilitation. PCPPI’s efforts fall under the Water and Sanitation cluster.

"This project will benefit the 12 most affected areas in Marawi, the biggest of which is Saguiaran," said Meily. "Community consultations will continue to ensure the project's viability, accessibility, and efficacy."

"Marawi has always been one of the key communities that patronize and support our products and we have great stories of partnerships with PCPPI built throughout the years. This is why when PDRF approached us and asked for help to rehabilitate the city, we did not hesitate," said PCPPI President, Samudra Bhattacharya. " By providing access to clean water to the 12 evacuation sites, especially in this time of Ramadan, we hope for a renewed determination for the residents to pursue the rebuilding of the city."

Also at the event was Lanao Del Sur’s Provincial Information Officer, Salma Jayne Alonto-Tamano. Millar reiterated the government's relentless pursuit of rebuilding Marawi, returning it to its vibrancy.

"With Pepsi and PDRF's partnership, it's evident that a scarcity of care does not exist--they have answered the call to be responsible corporate social citizens, with PDRF running toward the fire to lend a hand. Today, we find Task Force Bangon Marawi isn't an organization; it's all of us pitching in to help," said Meily. 

"PCPPI's help will not only quench the thirst, wash the hands and bodies of the affected community, but will also help them feel human again," said Meily.

PDRF first worked with the bottling company last year for the donation and installation of 1,000 gasera lights and 500 solar street lamps in Marawi.

Jollibee and Jollibee Group Foundation spread hope and joy among Marawi kids

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The country’s number one fast-food chain partnered with the Jollibee Group Foundation (JGF) to spread hope and joy last December through the "Magbahagi para sa mga Bata sa Marawi", a Jollibee Maaga ang Pasko special gift-giving program.

Jollibee and JGF volunteers also gave away Jollibee Yumburgers, Red Ribbon treats, toiletries and hygiene kits to more than 500 students from 15 schools who gathered at the Amai Pakpak Central Elementary School. 

The students and their teachers, school and local Department of Education officials welcomed Jollibee as he delighted everyone with a jolly dance number. The beneficiaries, in turn, showed their appreciation to everyone’s best friend by doing various song and dance numbers.

The gift-giving activity was made possible with the help of the Alrose Group of Companies, Philippine Business for Social Progress, the local government of Marawi, and other volunteers. Other donation partners were Robinsons Department Store, Adarna House, Goodwill Bookstore, Katha Publishing, Rex Bookstore and Vibal Publishing House, Inc.

The program supports Jollibee’s belief in #SharingJoy especially among children, as it fosters love, care and compassion for others. 

PNB reopens branch in Marawi City

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True to its mandate of putting the needs of its customers first, Philippine National Bank reopened its Marawi Branch recently – the first bank to open in the city after the siege. 

The branch is located inside the Mindanao State University (MSU) campus. A day before it reopened, the bank was also the first to resume operations of ATM units – one machine in the MSU campus branch and another in the Capitol area. 

PNB’s Retail Banking Sector Head and EVP Bernie H. Tocmo underscores how the bank remains committed to serving the needs of its clients. “We knew that as soon as the dust had settled, we had to be ready to serve our customers,” he says. “We are focused on being a solid and dependable financial partner as Marawi starts to rebuild lives and businesses.” 

PNB Marawi Branch operates from Monday to Friday, from 9:00am to 12:00pm. As of September 2017, PNB has more than 680 branches and over 1,000 ATMs nationwide. The Bank has the widest international footprint among Philippine banks with 71 overseas branches, representative offices, and remittance centers and subsidiaries across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and North America.

To know more about PNB, visit its official website: www.pnb.com.ph. 

About PNB

Philippine National Bank is one of the country’s largest private universal banks in terms of assets and deposits. It provides a full range of banking and other financial services to its highly diverse clientele comprised of individual depositors, small and medium enterprise, domestic and international corporations, government institutions, and overseas Filipinos. Backed by a century of stability and excellence, PNB looks forward to another hundred years of serving its customers first.

Selfie Salute: Vivo local endorsers unite with the brand in support of Marawi soliders

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In the light of the victory won against Islamic rebel fighters in Marawi and the recent extension of the Martial Law in the city for another year, Vivo Philippines has been extending their support in more ways than one. Just in time for Christmas, the 5th biggest global smartphone brand launched a special Christmas video in honor of the brave soldiers who risked their lives in the conflict in Marawi. The touching video, which captured the hearts of many, depicts a touch story of a widow, her children, and a husband and father they lost in the Marawi conflict and the people who reached out to them to return the priceless favor.

Vivo Philippines also paid the wounded soldiers of Marawi a visit during a special outreach affair at the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Hospital last December 17 to interact with and personally thank the freedom fighters. Vivo's brand endorsers Jason Dy, KZ Tandingan, Darren Espanto, and Kisses Delavin joined in on the affair to give encouragement and empowerment to the soldiers.

Likewise, other Vivo brand endorsers showed their unwavering support to the Marawi troops by offering them a salute. Posted on their respective social media accounts, the Vivo brand endorsers relayed their respective messages of gratitude for those courageous peace-keepers.

Daniel Padilla, in his post of support said, "This Christmas, I would like to extend my #SelfieSalute to all the brave soldiers who fought for our freedom." "Hey super fans!" members of hot all-male group BoybandPH posted on their respective Instagram accounts, "Let us all do a #SelfieSalute for all our brave soldiers who made this year's Christmas peaceful." Soul singer Julie Anne San Jose also posted her own selfie salute for the Marawi soldiers. On the post she said, "I am sending my #SelfieSalute to our brave soldiers who fought for our freedom and peace!" Other Vivo brand endorsers Sue Ramirez, Jason Dy, love team Inigo Pascual and Maris Racal also posted their own selfie salute as a sign of support to the soldiers.

Julie San Jose

Daniel Padilla

Maris Racal

Thanks to the call for support by the key influencers of Vivo, hundreds of fans shared their own selfie salute which were shared to the soldiers during Vivo Philippines' Marawi soldiers outreach affair at the AFP hospital.

Watch the Vivo special Christmas video here.

For inquiries about Vivo, visit the Vivo website at www.vivo.com/ph or check out their Facebook, Instagram and Twitter accounts.

Coke Studio empowers youth to help rehabilitate Marawi through benefit concert

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Coca-Cola Philippines brought thousands of teens together to help rebuild Marawi through a unique benefit concert that celebrated the Filipinos’ love for music as it empowered the youth to move as one creative force for a great endeavor.

Coke Studio brings together talented OPM artists and, the Filipino youth in a one-of-a-kind benefit concert to rebuild and bring music back to Marawi.

At the Coke Studio Live: Bringing Music Back to Marawi held on December 9 at the SM Mall of Asia concert grounds, many of the attendees showed their support by bringing empty Coca-Cola PET bottles for a recycling drive that would help contribute in the construction of a Little Red Schoolhouse for Marawi kids. Coca-Cola Philippines committed to build a Little Red Schoolhouse as part of the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation’s (PDRF) United4Marawi campaign.

“This is our way of showing support and solidarity with the Filipino people – to be able to contribute in the rebuilding process. Music is one of the things that threads through every person, regardless of age, religion, culture, and socio-economic bracket. We are committed to help the communities that we serve, especially in times like these that we have to come together to rebuild not just the physical structures, but most importantly, the lives of the people.” - said Stephan Czypionka, Marketing Director of Coca-Cola Philippines. 

“We are committed in helping rebuild Marawi and the communities impacted by this conflict. In partnership with relevant government agencies, we in the private sector will be bringing our sustainability initiatives to the area,” said Jonah de Lumen-Pernia, Public Affairs and Communications Director of Coca-Cola Philippines. “Our 5by20 entrepreneurship programs will be provided for the spouses of soldiers deployed in Marawi, while water systems will also be installed in the communities. We’ll also build a Little Red Schoolhouse.”

All the Coke Studio artists unite to sing a moving rendition of “Oh Come, All Ye Faithful” for the people of Marawi.

Bringing music back to Marawi

It was a night filled with music and hope as Coke Studio artists including The Ransom Collective, Gab and John of Urbandub, Abra, Gracenote, Moonstar88, Autotelic, Ebe Dancel, Franco, Reese Lansangan, BP Valenzuela and Sandwich, Noel Cabangon, and Curtismith shared their voices and talents for Marawi. Their amazing performances included renditions of Christmas favorites as well as their groundbreaking collaborations.

To further involve the youth in the advocacy, Coca-Cola also selected artists from the top UAAP schools: SLTO of University of the Philippines Diliman, PAPA PETA of University of Santo Tomas, The Cohens of Ateneo de Manila University, and Matt Junasio of De La Salle University to perform an original collaboration piece. Other artists from different universities were also present to entertain the crowd in the pocket stage at the Tunebayan area.

Aside from the upbeat performances, there were also several emotional moments. Coke Studio artists Noel Cabangon and Curtismith led the audience in observing a few minutes of silence as they offered a prayer for the victims of Marawi. Afterwards, they both sang the empowering lyrics of their collaboration “Payong Kaibigan”. There was also a special group performance where the Coke Studio artists all sang “Oh Come, All Ye Faithful” to inspire unity in supporting the Maranaos especially this Christmas season.

During the event, attendees enjoyed exciting activities like singing along to their favorite tunes at the Coke Studio Canraoke and receiving personalized Coke bottles with their names in the labels at the Coke Jukebox. There was even a Christmas food fair and bazaar where guests feasted on good food, best paired with a refreshing drink.

Overall, it was a great night worthy of its even greater advocacy which showed just how music truly unites and inspires Filipinos to come together.

The vocalist of UP’s STLO belts out the lines of the university bands’ special composition for the people of Marawi.

Hip-hop superstar, Abra, raps crowd favorite “Diwata” at the Coke Studio Benefit Concert for Marawi. 

Franco Reyes, vocalist of Franco, rocking out at the Coke Studio Benefit Concert for Marawi at the Mall of Asia Concert Grounds.

Reese Lansangan sings a smash hit Coke Studio collaboration, “Off of Center”, with rock band Franco.

Thousands of people come to show their support for the worthy cause at the Coke Studio benefit concert at the Mall of Asia Concert Grounds.

Ebe Dancel and Raimund Marasigan happily share the stage as they sing an unexpected duet to the E-heads classic “Magasin”.

Curtismith and Noel Cabangon dedicate the empowering lyrics of their Coke Studio collaboration “Payong Kaibigan” to the victims of Marawi.

Attendees of the Coke Studio benefit concert are all smiles as they enjoy the event’s fun activities. 

The youth donate their empty bottles to help fund the construction of a Little Red Schoolhouse for Marawi children.

World Vision shifts to recovery aid for returning families in Marawi

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World Vision commits to support early recovery efforts for Marawi as thousands of its displaced families start returning to the city.

"We will continue to stand with the people of Marawi, especially with the children who are at the heart of our response," assures Rommel Fuerte, World Vision's National Director in the Philippines.

In coordination with the government, local partners and the conflict-affected communities, World Vision continues its humanitarian efforts to address the evolving needs of the affected people.

"We have started our post conflict assessments in some areas of Marawi. Our next steps will be based on the result of the said activity. We will ensure the participation of the affected population and will continue to engage local partners in the implementation of early recovery interventions," explains Ajab Macapagat, Humanitarian and Emergency Affairs Director. World Vision targets to help at least 1,000 families in the city, focusing on livelihood, psychosocial and education interventions.

Following the Philippine President's declaration of Marawi's liberation from the armed groups which attacked the city last May, the government continues to facilitate the homecoming of families to the cleared barangays or villages.

The 5-month armed conflict has displaced about 400,000 people and affected more than 80,000 school-aged children. It has also disrupted the livelihood of more than 69,000 farmers and around 118,000 workforce.

Macapagat further explains, "The early days of the response focused on home-based IDPs in Iligan City, Balo-i and Munai in Lanao del Norte and Lumbayanague, Marantao and Piagapo in Lanao del Sur. Now that the government has cleared several areas in Marawi, the response will now shift in helping the families as they reintegrate themselves in the city."

39-year old Raisa is one of the many displaced mothers who now face the daunting task of rebuilding their lives from the rubble. She takes care of her three children and is also 5-months pregnant. 

"Some people were afraid of us after the Marawi crisis started so more than the relief items, it matters that people come here, talk to us and listen to us," shares Raisa.

She has been attending World Vision's women and young child space (WaYCS) in the outskirts of Piagapo in Lanao del Sur.

"The 10-day WaYCS has also been a good venue for me to mingle with other mothers and get support as I take care of my children, especially the baby inside me," she explains. 

Her child Hanzela, also joined the child-friendly space and was given a learner's kit.

To date, the organization, through its local partners Ecoweb, Mindanao Tri-partite Youth Core (MTYC), Rawaten, Lanao Youth Council and Tapukan Farmers' Movement for Progress and Concord, Inc. has reached at least 40,000 people through its multi-sectoral interventions. 

About 20,000 children were served through setting up of 14 child-friendly spaces and provision of learner's kits while 4,000 families or approximately 20,000 people were given hygiene kits that included toothbrushes, toothpaste, underwear for both children and adults, sanitary napkin, nail cutter, malong, bath and laundry soaps and other non-food items like mosquito net, fleece blanket and plastic mat. World Vision, through the departments of education and social welfare, has provided 12 temporary learning spaces and 1,000 5-gallon water.

PAL airlifts donations to Marawi

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Philippine Airlines (PAL) is offering free airlift of critical supplies and relief goods for the rebuilding of Marawi City.

PAL is flying donations to Cagayan de Oro, for transport by land to Marawi City, through accredited government agencies, SEC-registered foundations, NGOs, non-profit, charitable, civic and religious organizations.

The program, which covers airlifting of donations within the Philippines only, is flying goods on space availability basis. Priority goods are urgently needed items such as medicines, ready-to-eat halal processed foods and products, mats and blankets, water purification tablets and equipment, hygiene supplies such as baby diapers and other commodities which are not readily sourced in the affected areas.

Donors may send an email to the PAL Foundation at palfoundation@pal.com.ph indicating the following details – name and contact details of donors/organizations, recipient or consignee, contents and estimate cost of donation, weight, etc. They will be given instructions on the schedule of shipment. 

Tindig Marawi : Mindanao Peace Advocate Robin Padilla Launches "Kabahayan, Kabuhayan for Marawi"

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Robin Padilla well known film director, screenwriter, producer, actor and MINDANAO Peace Advocate launched, Tindig Marawi, yesterday, October 26, 2017 held at Ilustrado, Intramuros, Manila. 

Tindig Marawi, Padilla's  personal advocacy to help rebuild the war-torn city and provide support for its people in terms of shelter and livelihood opportunities.

Marawi City, officially known as the Islamic City of Marawi, is the capital and the only city in the province of Lanao del Sur on the island of Mindanao in the Philippines. The people of Marawi are called the Maranaos and speak the Maranao language. They are named after Lake Lanao, which is called Meranauin the language, upon whose shores Marawi lies. The city is also called the "Summer Capital of the South" because of its higher elevation and cooler climate.

All hopes and effort for the full-blown rehabilitation, reconstruction and rebuilding to get back into normalcy of the city after the five-month battle against Islamic State-inspired terrorists.

“Ang Mindanao at kapayapaan ay dalawang bagay na malapit sa aking puso,” Padilla shares, explaining why the Marawi Siege that lasted for five months has impacted him in a big way. 

Unknown to many, Padilla has already started helping the people of Marawi since the war started last May by reaching out to friends, relatives, and private companies to gather relief goods for those displaced by the war. Padilla also recently donated Php5 million for the psycho-social intervention of the kids of Marawi and personally distributed Php5 million worth of relief goods to affected families.

Despite these efforts, Padilla admits that the people of Marawi need so much more help.

An advocate and dedicated Filipino, Padilla created the “Tindig, Marawi” movement to create heightened awareness on the critical needs of the people of Marawi despite the recent government’s declaration on the end of the Marawi siege. 

Padilla said that the worst thing that could happen is for the public to forget that the people of Marawi still needs everyone’s help, especially at this time of rebuilding.

“Ang Tindig Marawi po ay isang kilusan, hindi poi to pansariling pagkilos ko lamang. Inaanyayahan ko po ang lahat na tumulong para sa pagbangon at pagtindig na muli ng Marawi. Natapos man po ang digmaan, napakalaki pa rin po ng kanilangang pangangailangan. Bahay, hanapbuhay, pagkain, ospital, paaralan—napakarami pong nawasak sa Marawi at malawakang pagtulong po ang kailangan para makatindig silang muli,” Padilla said during in a press conference yesterday.

Damaged buildings and houses. (Reuters/Romeo Ranoco)

Padilla said that he hopes to use “Tindig, Marawi” as a springboard to generate more support from private individuals, corporations and organizations to support and help in the rebuilding of Marawi.

During at the yesterday’s press conference, Bhavna Suresh, managing director and Chief Executive Officer of the global property portal Lamudi, signed a memorandum of understanding to officially partner with the Tindig Marawi program, particularly in the establishment of a portal that will help serve as a fund-raising platform for the rebuilding of shelters in Marawi.

Lito Villanueva, managing director of the financial technology company FINTQ, is also collaborating with Tindig Marawi through the “Pabuhay” component where they commit to assist the Marawi victims regain their livelihood and facilitate organic farming and micro business training through their program, KasamaKa. 

They will also kickstart the Tindig Marawi Livelihood Fund, hoping to raise a minimum of P10 million which will be used to provide seed money to the people of Marawi so they could start and rebuild their businesses.

Dr. Potre Diampuan 

Also present during the press conference was Interfaith peace advocate Dr. Potre Diampuan who shared with the media the three things that the Maranaos need at this time – Shelter, Subsistence and Sustainability. 

Padilla appealed for media, government and non-government, and all to support this cause - Tinding Marawi.

“Umaasa ako na sana’y itong proyekto nating Tindig Marawi ay maka-antig sa puso ng ating mga kababayan na tumulong sa mga kapatid nating naapektuhan sa katatapos lang na labanan sa Marawi,” Padilla said.

Padilla mentioned some of his colleagues in the industry, such as actor Piolo Pascual and director Joyce Bernal, have already donated to the Tindig Marawi fund and Padilla hopes that more people will follow suit.

Wounded Marawi Soldiers Get Care from SM Foundation Fit for Heroes

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At least two medical facilities at the AFP Medical Center in V Luna – the Heroes’ Ward and Convalescence Ward – are giving proper recovery care for wounded soldiers from Marawi courtesy of a health and wellness program by SM Foundation, Inc. (SMFI).

Under SMFI’s program, health facilities and dispensaries of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) are renovated to improve the facilities and services for soldiers deployed and injured from armed conflicts in various parts of the country . The program has so far renovated 22 military health facilities that provide medical treatment and care to the Philippine Army, Navy, and Air Force.

As of June, at least 240 soldiers coming from Marawi are being cared for in the two renovated wards of the AFP Medical Center , SM Foundation Health and Medical Programs Project Manager Albert Uy said. The Heroes’ Ward serves as the recovery facility, after which the patients will be brought to the Convalescence Ward where they will go through therapy that will help them back on their feet and into their normal lives.

“We are deeply thankful for our beloved soldiers’ service to the country, risking their lives so that we may enjoy our own with utmost freedom. SM Foundation’s program is dedicated to improving AFP’s health facilities so that our wounded soldiers can have the best medical care fit for heroes,” said Connie Angeles, Senior Assistant Vice President and Executive Director for health and medical programs of SMFI.

Medical facilities that go through renovation and rehabilitation under SMFI’s program get full enhancement from new paint to improved toilets, air conditioning systems, hospital beds, and other necessary reconstruction. The program has been recognized with an award by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, citing SMFI’s sincere efforts in alleviating the plight of injured personnel of the Philippine military forces.

The drink for every soldier: Coca-Cola powers Filipino troops in Marawi with beverage supply

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Every day, countless Filipino soldiers display gallantry, courage, and true heroism in the name of duty to our country.

The Coca-Cola System in the Philippines takes this time to honor and salute all Filipino troops stationed in various parts of Mindanao – the men and women who have dedicated their lives to reclaim and ensure peace for our fellow Filipinos.

Starting  August 4, Coca-Cola Philippines, bottling partner Coca-Cola FEMSA Philippines, and Coca-Cola Philippines Foundation, commit to support the Armed Forces of the Philippines by providing supplies of beverage products that will contribute to their well-being during their time of service.

The troops deployed in Marawi City will be given priority. A steady supply of beverages, which includes sports drink brand Powerade, Coca-Cola, and bottled water Wilkins Pure will be provided daily. Aside from being a beverage, bottled water is also used in the battlefield to clean and treat wounded soldiers.

Major General Benjamin Madrigal Jr., Division Commander of the 4th Infantry Division in Northern Mindanao said that the support given by companies like Coca-Cola and private individuals boosts the morale of the soldiers. While combat is the expertise of the troops, going to war and putting their lives on the line is the least of the things that they hope for.

The Coca-Cola System in the Philippines will also be extending additional support through the implementation of various sustainability programs for the Filipino troops and their families. A memorandum of agreement will be signed between the parties to formalize the support for our uniformed personnel.