Small Acts, Big Impact

CEBU, PHILIPPINES — When the earthquake struck northern Cebu, it left more than damaged homes in its wake. It disrupted routines, strained already fragile resources, and forced families to confront an uncertain recovery. In Sitio U&I, Barangay Lamintak Sur, Medellin, the days that followed were defined by immediate needs—food, clean water, and shelter—and by the quiet question of who would come to help..

On October 5, 2025, help arrived through a coordinated relief effort led by the Rotary Club of Cebu South, heading Cluster 3 of District 3860 DMI North Cebu Relief. Rotary volunteers made their way to the sitio carrying supplies meant not only to ease physical hardship, but also to remind residents that they had not been forgotten.

More than 200 food and water kits were distributed, along with sacks of rice, Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBC tanks) for water storage, and tarpaulins with rope to help families set up temporary shelter. Each item addressed a basic need made more pressing by the disaster, offering practical support during a fragile moment of recovery.

Beyond the provisions, the outreach brought reassurance. The presence of volunteers working hand in hand with district partners reflected a shared commitment to restore dignity and stability in the aftermath of crisis. It was a reminder that recovery is not faced alone, but strengthened through collective care.

This relief mission embodies Rotary’s belief that meaningful change often begins with simple acts of service, carried out with compassion and urgency. By responding when it mattered most, the Rotary Club of Cebu South reaffirmed its dedication to uplifting vulnerable communities and showed how even small acts can leave a lasting impact.

Submitted by: Rheneir P. Mora, President, Rotary Club of Cebu South