Kalinga sa Panahon ng Sakuna: A Meal in the Middle of the Flood

In the early days of August, heavy rains and flooding affected several areas across Bulacan, forcing families in parts of Guiguinto to leave their homes and seek shelter in evacuation centers.

As floodwaters rose and the rain continued, the Rotary Club of Guiguinto Bloomingdales moved quickly to bring relief to families during the crisis.

The club brought food assistance to evacuation centers in Barangay Ilang-Ilang, where around 500 evacuees were staying, and Barangay Santa Cruz, with 123 evacuees. Families were served menudo and rice for lunch, while sopas and bread were distributed later in the afternoon.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

The response was simple, but the reaction from the evacuees was heartening. The warm and familiar meals provided a little comfort during an otherwise difficult day.

Getting the food to the evacuation centers was not easy. With flooded roads and rain still falling, RCGB members had to make their way through the floodwaters to reach the communities they intended to serve. But the relief effort continued.

The experience underscored the value of responding while help is needed most. During a disaster, immediate assistance can mean providing not only food, but also reassurance to families who have been displaced and are uncertain about what comes next.

Kalinga sa Panahon ng Sakuna may have provided only a meal for the day, but its purpose reached further, to let affected families know that their community had not forgotten them.

In times of crisis, lasting impact can begin with something as simple as showing up, sharing what we can, and making sure that those who need help do not face a difficult day alone.

Submitted by: PP Cheryll Cruz Unson, RC Guiguinto Bloomingdales