A call for bayanihan was raised as communities in Mindanao continue to recover from the powerful magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck the region on June 8.
The disaster left more than 600 people injured and nearly 50 others dead, prompting appeals for immediate help for affected families, particularly those in General Santos City and nearby areas.
Relief efforts have begun reaching several communities, with initial assistance brought to Barangay City Heights in P.I. Village and the General Santos Central Command on Wednesday, June 10.
Among the first items distributed were 3,500 pieces of Nutribuns and 3,000 bottles of water for families affected by the earthquake.
In times of disaster, responders and aid groups stressed that even simple donations such as bread, water, clothing, and other basic goods can help families who have been displaced or left without access to daily necessities.
“Kung ano ang abot-kayang maitutulong, miski tinapay at lumang mga damit at gamit, malaking bagay na,” Sen. Imee Marcos said, as she urged the public to extend whatever support they can provide.
The senator’s office also said it would send galvanized iron or GI sheets to help families whose homes were damaged by the quake.
“Sa gitna ng sakuna, pinakaimportante ang mabilis na aksyon. Pagkain at tubig ang unang kailangan ng bawat pamilya,” she said.
She added that affected communities should not be made to wait for help as they begin the difficult process of rebuilding.
“Hindi natin pwedeng pag-antayin ang mga kababayang nangangailangan ng tulong. Gawin na dapat lahat ng makakaya para makaahon sila,” she noted.
The appeal also called on the public and officials to set aside politics and personal interests in favor of urgent disaster response for Mindanao.
As relief operations continue, the call for bayanihan highlights the role of ordinary citizens, private groups, local communities, and public offices in helping quake-hit families recover one meal, one bottle of water, and one act of compassion at a time.