Beneficiaries in Gonzaga, Cagayan smile after receiving relief packs from Operation SagipJackielou Basawil’s son and aunt died in the landslide in Bgry. Ampucao, Itogon, Benguet in September; they also lost their house during the landslide caused by typhoon Ompong.

Basawil’s neighbors helped her construct a shanty so they would have a temporary place to stay and a place where they can hold the wake for her deceased relatives.

Basawil’s family is just one of the 7,065 families given aid by Operation Sagip through its relief operations for typhoon Ompong in Cagayan and Benguet. A total of 35,325 individuals received relief packs containing rice, canned goods and hygiene kits.

“I hope this will not happen again to us and to all of our neighbors in Itogon, Benguet,” Basawil said, trying to hold back her tears.

Operation Sagip’s relief efforts are fueled by the donations they receive from different individuals and groups. Recently, the Women of BelAir (WOBA) Foundation Inc. turned over cash and in-kind donations such as clothes and medicines to help families affected by the calamity.

“We want to give it to the most deserving, to those who need it the most, and to who can give it [the fastest],” said WOBA Foundation founder Constancia Lichauco.

Aside from Cagayan and Benguet, Operation Sagip also reached out to 968 families affected by the landslide that occurred in Naga, Cebu also in September.

The landslide affected five barangays—Tinaan, Mainit, Naalad, Pangdan and Cabungalan—leaving 65 people dead, 18 injured and several other individuals still missing. (Story/Photos by: Althea Cahayag)