MANILA, Philippines — The Tzu Chi Foundation held a two-day rice relief activity last December 28-29 that benefitted some 5,000 families in Cagayan de Oro and 4,000 families in Iligan City who survived the flash flood of typhoon ‘Sendong’.

The 9,000 sacks of rice were donated by the Agriculture and Food Agency of Taiwan to the Buddhist organization and were shipped to Northern Mindanao by Sulpicio Lines. Tzu Chi volunteers also gave away thermal blankets, used clothings and casseroles to ‘Sendong’ survivors which were flown to the distressed area by Philippine Airlines and ZestAir.

Teachers and students of Kong Hua School in Cagayan de Oro, businessmen, and other private individuals took part in the relief mission.

Prior to the relief mission, Tzu Chi volunteers led by Jimmy Chua conducted a survey on Barangay Macasandig, in Cagayan de Oro and other areas affected by the flood to determine their needs.

Some 30 Tzu Chi volunteers then dispersed themselves at the 168 Mall in Binondo and laid down donation boxes for the ‘Sendong’ victims. The shoppers responded positively to the volunteers’ plea for help and admired Tzu Chi’s fund drive for the flood-stricken families in Northern Mindanao.

Tzu Chi Philippines chief executive officer Alfredo Li assured that the proceeds from the donation drive will be utilized to alleviate the suffering of the flood victims. Li also appealed to the people to extend more helps to victims of Typhoon Sendong.

For donations, please inquire at Tzu Chi Philippines at 732-0001 local 220 or 211, or visit our website at www.tzuchi.org.ph.

For inquiries, please e-mail tzuchi_phils@ph.tzuchi.org.