TALIBON, BOHOL – The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) has vested beneficiaries with 70 housing units in barangay San Carlos, Talibon, Bohol, by turning over to them the completed houses during the program yesterday.
PRC chairman Richard Gordon personally handed over the key to Rowela Bernaliza, 36, one of the beneficiary-owners of the housing units, in a symbolic turnover inside her new found home.
Bernaliza was not able to hold her tears for the joy when interviewed by this writer and Rey Chiu as she sincerely expressed thanks and appreciation to PRC, Gordon, the municipal and provincial governments for what she considered as blessing.
Her family with husband and three kids was one of the families who suffered in the aftermath of typhoon Odette when it hit Bohol on December 16, 2023.
Gov. Aris Aumentado, who accompanied Gordon in coming here, also expressed thanks to PRC and Gordon who dedicated and committed to pursue the housing project for the love of the Boholanos.
“We hope you continue to throw support to Bohol,” he said in his short speech.
The governor also thanked the Talibon officials for the support particularly in providing or donating the seven-hectare lot for the said project. He added that his administration will always support the PRC’s endeavors.
After over a year of continuous provision of relief and recovery aid to communities in Bohol severely hit by typhoon Odette (international name: Rai), the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) returns to Talibon town on May 6, to officially turn over crtificates of occupancy to 70 beneficiaries, PRC’s press statement said.
PRC chairman Richard Gordon said the project is aligned with PRC’s hymn, “When the world no longer watches, we do what must be done,” adding that the humanitarian organization will remain committed to its mission of alleviating the sufferings of vulnerable communities in Bohol until they fully recover.
The project is supported by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, Starbucks, Reckitt, Honda, Rustans coffee, Singapore Red Cross and Kuwait Red Crescent. The construction of the shelters, worth over P25,900,000 started in October of 2022 and was completed last April 2023.
PRC Sec-General Dr. Gwen Pang said that the objective of the FSA is to provide durable, safe and comfortable housing to families who have lost their homes due to the typhoon.
The project covered the full cost of construction materials and labor and ensured that each family received a shelter that is suitable for their needs.
“Our goal is to provide a sense of stability and security to those who have been displaced by the typhoons, and we are committed to working closely with local officials and community leaders to ensure that the project is carried out effectively and efficiently,” Dr. Pang said.
In addition to shelter assistance, PRC has likewise provided health assistance, water supply, relief (e.g., tarpaulin, mosquito nets, blankets, hygiene kits, plastic mats and kitchen sets), food assistance and psychological support to thousands of Odette victims since its onslaught in December 16, 2021. (rvo)
