The Officers and Staff of the Embassy of the Philippines and the Filipino Community in New Zealand join our beloved country and people in conveying our deep condolences to the victims and bereaved families of the devastating tropical storm “Sendong” which hit Northern Mindanao and the Visayas over the weekend. Our hearts go out to the thousands of people from Cagayan de Oro, Iligan, Dumaguete and Bukidnon who lost their families, relatives, loved ones and friends, their homes and properties and continue to suffer from the tragic effects of this natural disaster.
During this state of national calamity declared by President Benigno S. Aquino III and at this time of great need, we are one with our entire nation in offering our heartfelt prayers for GOD’s comfort, strength and provisions and in helping alleviate the suffering of our affected people. It is indeed heartening to know that the Filipinos’ time-honoured, well-known and globally proven spirit of “bayanihan” (volunteerism and coming together) amidst the massive and concerted relief, rescue, recovery and rehabilitation operations continue to be demonstrated.
Filipinos and friends in New Zealand who would like to assist during this extremely difficult period may send their donations to the Philippine government agencies, non-governmental organizations, business companies, churches, media and other groups that have set up the necessary centers and focal points for this purpose. The Embassy’s website has the contact details of some of the agencies and foundations receiving the donations for the victims of the tragedy.
In the spirit of sharing and giving especially during this Christmas season, let us all continue to show our utmost care, compassion and concern for our “kababayans” in Mindanao and Visayas. The global Filipinos in New Zealand and other parts of the world have always generously extended their helping hands in times of crises and will continue to make tangible contributions to help make a distinctive difference in the lives of our brothers and sisters in the worst hit areas in the Philippines.