Yukon Filipino Community Sends Aid to Typhoon Kalmaegi-Hit Philippines
Members of Yukon’s Filipino community are mobilizing to support their families affected by Typhoon Kalmaegi in the Philippines. The typhoon, which struck central areas of the country, has caused significant devastation, claiming at least 188 lives and leaving 135 individuals missing. Millions have been displaced, marking this disaster as one of the deadliest of 2023.
Community Response to Typhoon Kalmaegi
Aira Perucho, a 17-year-old resident of Dawson City, is among those leading efforts to provide assistance. Her family’s home in Cebu was destroyed in the storm. She described the harrowing moment her cousin had to evacuate family members as a tree fell, narrowly avoiding a catastrophe.
The storm ultimately caused their house to collapse, and Perucho initiated an online fundraising campaign to gather $5,000 for temporary living arrangements for her family. Additional funds will assist neighbors facing similar hardships.
Fundraising Efforts
Perucho expressed initial concerns about the campaign’s reception, fearing it might not resonate with potential donors. However, she was pleasantly surprised by the community’s response. “The support has been overwhelming, and we are already halfway to our goal,” she said.
Her relatives in the Philippines have expressed immense gratitude. “Some were in tears of joy,” Perucho noted, highlighting the financial difficulties faced by families in rebuilding efforts.
Support from the Canadian Filipino Association
Dominic Pelayo, president of Yukon’s Canadian Filipino Association, shared his concerns about the aftermath of Typhoon Kalmaegi. His organization had just completed fundraising for earthquake victims in the same region prior to the typhoon. Pelayo emphasized the urgent need for food, shelter, and clothing among the affected communities in the Cebu provinces.
- Over 188 fatalities reported
- 135 individuals still missing
- Millions displaced
- Community mobilization through fundraising
Pelayo received distressing calls from friends in the Philippines during the storm. Many were forced to seek refuge on rooftops or second floors of their homes. Motivated to help, he has already booked a trip to the Philippines next month to deliver funds and supplies.
A Call for Continued Support
Both Pelayo and Perucho represent the resilience of the Yukon’s Filipino community in the face of tragedy. They urge others to contribute to the ongoing relief efforts for those impacted by Typhoon Kalmaegi. With the continuous challenges posed by natural disasters, the need for aid is pressing and immediate.
