CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and its partner stakeholders turned over construction materials worth P950,000.00 to the people of Limasawa Island, Southern Leyte on Saturday, April 30.
The donated items came from the proceeds of the recently concluded ‘Heroes Adventure Challenge: Race to Rebuild Limasawa’ organized by Ms. Theresa Mae Conson of Smarties Apparel and Active Hub Events and Wellness. It sought to help the victims of Typhoon Odette through the reconstruction of their homes.
General Andres Centino, the AFP Chief of Staff led the turnover ceremony held at the Magallanes Port in Limasawa Island.
“The Armed Forces of the Philippines is grateful for our partners who are always ready to support the military in providing for our people whom we swore to always protect,” said General Centino.
From the amount, 1, 741 pieces of GI sheet roofing; 1,198 pieces of lumber; and 16 boxes of nails were donated through the Local Government of Limasawa.
The AFP and organizers also distributed Bags of Hope from various sponsors of the race. These included 9,600 liters of bottled water; 300 pieces of quin/centennial cross replicas; eight boxes of energy drinks; and 100 bundles of joy for the children.
Present in the ceremony were Lieutenant General Robert Dauz, Commander of Visayas Command; Major General Edgardo De Leon, Commander of 8th Infantry Division; and Limasawa Mayor Melchor Petracorta.
The virtual race which started on March 1 had four sports disciplines; run, bike, big bikes and motorcycle. It was joined by 1,500 participants from the AFP, Visayas Command, Philippine Navy, Philippine Air Force, Philippine Army, and Philippine Military Academy.
On December 16, 2021, the Island of Limasawa bore the brunt of Typhoon Odette and was the worst hit municipality in Southern Leyte.
Almost 90 percent of the houses in the island were destroyed while 1,849 families were displaced. The typhoon also damaged fishing boats, the only means of transportation to and from the island.///(Photos from TSg Randulf Obinque PAF/PAOAFP)
