Solidarity Amid Uncertainty
Cebu, Philippines. On September 30, 2025, a powerful 6.9 magnitude earthquake struck Cebu and nearby provinces, causing widespread damage to homes and livelihoods. Many families were injured, displaced, and left grieving.
In response, Ako Ang Saklay, Inc., led by Fr. Arnold Abelardo, CMF, Director and JPIC Coordinator of the Claretian SOMI Team, together with the Claretian Mission Procure (Proclade–Pilipinas Foundation, Inc.), DOH TRC Cebu City, and volunteer sisters from the Siervas de Nuestra Señora de la Paz and the Capuchin Tertiary Sisters, organized a relief mission to bring help and hope to those affected.
From October 14 to 20, 2025, our team traveled to the northern municipalities of Cebu, especially Daanbantayan, reaching the barangays of Malingin, Paypay, Lanao, and Talisay. We distributed relief goods to families most affected by the disaster and held Psychological First Aid (PFA) sessions for adults, children, and the elderly. These sessions gave everyone a safe space to share their emotions, fears, and hopes after the traumatic experience. Local volunteers—church and youth leaders, barangay officials, health workers, and community development workers—joined us, showing the true spirit of bayanihan and solidarity.From October 14 to 20, 2025, our team traveled to the northern municipalities of Cebu, especially Daanbantayan, reaching the barangays of Malingin, Paypay, Lanao, and Talisay. We distributed relief goods to families most affected by the disaster and held Psychological First Aid (PFA) sessions for adults, children, and the elderly. These sessions gave everyone a safe space to share their emotions, fears, and hopes after the traumatic experience. Local volunteers—church and youth leaders, barangay officials, health workers, and community development workers—joined us, showing the true spirit of bayanihan and solidarity.
Together, we were able to reach and assist nearly 3,000 Cebuanos. Each encounter during the PFA sessions became a moment of shared faith, courage, and resilience. As we listened to their stories and saw their smiles return, we were reminded that hope always rises, even in times of uncertainty. Their faith continues to inspire us in our mission.
As we returned home, we carried with us their prayers, gratitude, and renewed hope. Our heartfelt thanks to all donors, volunteers, and families who supported and welcomed us during this mission. May this act of solidarity remind us that, even in uncertain times, our compassion and faith will always move us to serve. We invite everyone to join us in future missions—by giving, volunteering, or spreading awareness—so together, we can continue to bring hope and support to those in need.
