Bayanihan in Times of Municipal Need
QUEZON CITY – The League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) continues to demonstrate its “Will to Serve”. Through its “Bayanihan” efforts, the LMP turns it commitment to assist its member-municipalities struck by natural calamities into reality.
Q4 2019 Disasters
Last 1-6 December 2019, Typhoon “Tisoy” – international name “Kammuri” – battered the Province of Sorsogon. “Tisoy” left families homeless and caused massive damage to agriculture, infrastructure, and property. In response, the LMP provided assistance to stricken municipalities through the leadership of its National President and Narvacan, Ilocos Sur Mayor Luis “Chavit” C. Singson, Secretary-General and Barcelona, Sorsogon Mayor Cynthia G. Falcotelo-Fortes and the other members of the National Executive Committee.
On 15 December 2019, less than two (2) weeks after the onslaught of Typhoon “Tisoy,” a 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck the province of Davao del Sur. The killer quake took the lives of 13 people, injured 210, and caused widespread damage to property. Through National President Chavit Singson and members of the ExeCom, the LMP sprang into action by delivering assistance to the most affected municipalities. Relief goods were delivered to Padada, Davao del Sur and Malungon, Sarangani. Thses incuded much needed sacks of rice, potable water, and temporary shelters (tarpaulins and canvas sheets). First to respond to the the “Call for Bayanihan” were the LMP Provincial Chapters of Abra and Batangas, led by Mayors Denise Bernos-Bragas and Valentino R. Patron, respectively.
Taal Volcano Phreatic Eruption
In a seemingly endless assault of natural calamities, Taal Volcano erupted on 12 January 2020. No less than a month after the earthquake in Davao del Sur, the towns of Agoncillo, Laurel, Talisay, Balete, San Nicolas, Taal, and Lemery in Batangas were engulfed in ash and darkness. It was in this time of calamity where the spirit of “Bayanihan” among LMP Provincial Chapters became evident.
On 28 January 2020, the people of Lingayen – through the leadership of LMP Pangasinan Chapter President and Lingayen Mayor Leopoldo N. Bataoil – turned over the amount of PhP 500,000.00 along with relief goods to affected families. Mayor Marilyn DG. Lambino of the Municipality of Mangaldan, Pangasinan also provided cash assistance of PhP 150, 000.00 to each of the most affected municipalities. These were received by the LMP Batangas Chapter Officers headed by their Chapter President Mayor Patron.
Shortly after, the LMP National Secretariat conducted its own relief operations. Relief packs containing canned goods, biscuits, potable water, and hygiene products were delivered to affected municipalities.
On 3 February, led by NP Chavit and members of the ExeCom, the LMP provided additional cash assistance to the LMP Batangas Chapter. Consequently, the LMP Batangas Chapter – through a resolution – expressed its “heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to the LMP National President Mayor Luis ‘Chavit’ C. Singson who has provided significant and genuine contribution on the relief efforts and assistance for the victims of Taal Volcano Eruption.”
In a country beset by natural hazards, it is of utmost importance that we work with one another in relief and rehabilitation efforts. For this, the LMP will continue its “Bayanihan” efforts. We will remain true to our commitment in extending help to those in need with oue #WillToServe. MJM