Mrs. Mary Grace L. Depalubos, RSW
A collaborative effort has brought renewed hope to 2,348 families in Barangay Dinadiawan, Dipaculao, Aurora, by providing essential assistance following Typhoon Pepito on December 10, 2024. This initiative was a partnership between ARCORES Philippines and two Recollect schools: San Sebastian College-Recoletos in Manila and San Sebastian College-Recoletos in Cavite. It demonstrated the transformative power of coordinated humanitarian efforts.
The campaign was initiated by Recollect Administrators Rev. Fr. Henry Santiago, OAR; Rev. Fr. Gideon Antolin Lagrimas, OAR; and Rev. Fr. Virgilio Paredes Jr., OAR. Under their guidance, the organizers worked closely with Fr. Izrael Gabriel, the Parish Priest of San Luis Obispo Parish in Baler, Aurora, to ensure the effective delivery of aid.
Essential items, including food packs, clothing, and hygiene kits, were distributed to affected families. Volunteers from two Recollect schools and ARCORES Philippines collaborated to mobilize resources, package donations, and personally deliver them to the community.
Fr. Gabriel expressed gratitude for the collaborative effort, highlighting its spiritual significance. “This campaign demonstrates how faith and compassion can unite us in serving those in need. God has sent wonderful workers from Manila and Cavite, who personally brought their love to the people of Dinadiawan,” he said.
Thanks to the Institute of Graduate Studies (IGS), the ETEAAP Dean, and the faculty, staff, and students for their valuable contributions. Additionally, heartfelt gratitude was extended to all employees and the READS (Recoletos Educational Assistance for Deserving Students) scholars who played a crucial role in ensuring the campaign’s success through their logistical support and assistance.
Residents of Barangay Dinadiawan, one of the hardest-hit areas, were deeply moved by the assistance. “The typhoon took away so much, but this support reminds us that we are not alone,” said local beneficiary Carlos Almonte.
The campaign underscores the shared mission of ARCORES Philippines and the Recollect schools to extend their reach beyond the confines of classrooms and into the hearts of communities in crisis. Their efforts reflect the enduring spirit of Bayanihan, the Filipino communal unity, and support tradition.
The event addressed immediate needs and promoted hope and resilience in Barangay Dinadiawan, showing that compassion and collaboration can illuminate the way during difficult times.
